Buyer III
Experience Level: Senior (10–15 Years)
Function: Procurement / Supply Chain / Purchasing
Industry: Utilities / Energy / Power Generation / Corporate Services

Client- Southern Company

Contract- 1 Year

Location- Birmingham, AL

Position Summary
The Buyer III is responsible for leading and executing procurement activities that support enterprise category management strategies and business partner requirements. This role oversees end-to-end procurement operations, including strategic sourcing, contract negotiation, supplier management, and purchase order execution, ensuring the cost-effective, timely, and compliant acquisition of goods and services.

The ideal candidate brings deep experience in utility or industrial procurement, strong negotiation skills, ERP expertise, and the ability to collaborate across finance, engineering, legal, and supply chain teams.

Key Responsibilities
Procurement Strategy & Strategic Sourcing
Develop and execute procurement strategies aligned with organizational goals, budgets, and operational needs

Lead strategic sourcing initiatives, including market research, supplier evaluation, and competitive bidding

Locate and qualify sources of supply for materials and services

Purchasing & Contract Execution
Issue requests for quotes (RFQs) and conduct bidder meetings

Analyze bids, pricing, and material reorder parameters

Create and manage purchase orders for services and materials

Negotiate pricing, terms, and conditions with suppliers

Draft and manage purchase contracts for material and service acquisitions

Supplier Relationship Management
Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers

Monitor supplier performance and resolve issues related to pricing, invoicing, specifications, or delivery

Collaborate with suppliers to improve cost, quality, and service levels

Contract & Compliance Management
Ensure strict adherence to procurement procedures, documentation requirements, and audit controls

Maintain compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, including Uniform Commercial Code (UCC)

Manage supplier contracts, renewals, modifications, and compliance with terms

Inventory & Supply Chain Coordination
Collaborate with internal stakeholders to manage inventory levels and prevent stockouts

Support logistics, expediting, and material delivery activities

Coordinate with traffic/logistics, engineering, finance, risk management, and legal teams

Cost Analysis & Optimization
Conduct cost analysis to identify cost-reduction opportunities

Optimize procurement processes while maintaining or improving quality

Provide procurement and cost-saving reports to management

Leadership & Continuous Improvement
Mentor and support procurement staff as needed

Promote sustainability and responsible sourcing practices

Identify and implement process improvements and best practices

Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Finance, Law, or a related field

10–15 years of experience in procurement, purchasing, or supply chain roles

Strong knowledge of purchasing and supply chain practices and standards

Experience with inventory management, contracts, and procurement operations

Strong analytical, negotiation, and communication skills

Ability to manage multiple transactions under time constraints

Strong attention to detail and documentation accuracy

Preferred Qualifications
Professional certifications such as:

Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)

Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM)

Certified Professional Contract Manager (CPCM)

Experience in utility, power generation, power delivery, gas, or corporate procurement

Strong knowledge of IBM Maximo ERP or similar enterprise systems

General knowledge of finance and accounting practices

Technical Skills
Proficiency in ERP systems and procurement tools

Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and databases

Experience analyzing procurement data and generating reports

Work Environment
Corporate or hybrid office environment

Frequent interaction with suppliers and cross-functional stakeholders

Fast-paced, deadline-driven procurement operations