We, at Leggett & Platt Inc., are searching for a Supplier Development Specialist to help support our Work Furniture business. Leggett & Platt is North America’s leading independent manufacturer of office furniture components and mechanisms. Our Work Furniture business produces task and finished components, as well as select lines of private label finished seating. From surface-critical bent tube assemblies and wire components to chair mechanisms, bases, arms, seats, and backs, Work Furniture brings diverse world-class manufacturing capabilities together in the production and assembly of high-quality contract furniture products.
As a Supplier Development Specialist (Specialist), you will be responsible for the coordination of the Supplier Performance Management (SPM) initiative for the branch. The Specialist works with the Supply Chain Manager to define the overall supplier quality management strategy, including developing a clear vision for SPM and priority setting. The individual will also be responsible for developing and maintaining a standardized approach to SPM including policies, procedures, forms, templates and supplier performance metrics etc. that are in line with the branches objectives. The Specialist will also be responsible for assuring effective coordination of supplier assessments and a corporate approved supplier list. You’ll be part of a collaborative, forward-thinking team that values diverse perspectives and thrives on tackling complex challenges. Work is performed on-site, Monday through Friday during standard business hours.

SO, WHAT WILL YOU BE DOING AS A SUPPLIER DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST?

• Support manufacturing on supplier related performance issues.
• Build relationships with suppliers to ensure understanding of L&P requirements, customer and regulatory compliance standards.
• Drive cost improvements and VAVE initiatives.
• Evaluate the capacity and capability of potential suppliers and ensure it meets the needs of the purchasing team.
• Continuously develop the supplier assessment process.
• Conduct supplier related assessments for selected potential and active suppliers, identify improvement opportunities.
• Work with suppliers on systemic root cause and permanent corrective action of quality issues.
• Responsible for collecting and internally communicating supplier scorecard results.
• Responsible for driving corrective actions to supplier failing to meet minimum performance metrics.
• Minimize the supplier base through the solicitation of competitive bids, quality and delivery performance.
• Send RFQ’s, analyze and receive quotations, select or recommend new suppliers.
• Research potential vendors and compare their products, prices and services.
• Analyze the effect that sourcing and supply decisions have on total business costs.
• Develop and execute transfer plans including timelines, risk assessments, and resource allocation.

TO BE SUCCESSFUL IN THIS ROLE, YOU’LL NEED:

• Must possess (1) solid communication skills (2) ability to negotiate (3) ability to multi-task (4) solid problem-solving skills.
• Strong team player with ability to work effectively on cross-functional teams.
• Highly analytical with an ability to analyze complex data as part of the decision-making process. Able to use data to support decisions.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel required.
• Firm understanding of an ERP system.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated project management skills and a process mindset.
• Demonstrated ability to provide Change Management skills to the department.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Functional understanding of BOM’s, MRP and Process Improvement practices and standards.
• Strong working knowledge of purchasing concepts, practices, and procedures.
• Effectively manage the delivery of purchased products, components, and services in a manufacturing environment.
• Bachelors Degree in Business, Supply Chain, or a related field, or equivalent work experience required.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in Supply Chain Management, or related work environment.
• 2+ years of experience as a buyer is preferred.