Sourcing specialist
Description
A sourcing specialist is responsible for the sourcing of ICT goods and services to ensure that business objectives are met. The sourcing specialist will source a set of suppliers that are able to deliver the optimal balance of cost, quality, risk and innovation necessary to delivery on the organisations desired business outcomes.
The sourcing specialist is charged with the dynamic delivery of internal and external, business or IT oriented resources and services so the organisation can provide ICT services to their customers.
The sourcing specialist will work closely with the vendor relationship manager and account manager in building relationships with existing and new suppliers.
A sourcing specialist exhibits a combination of capabilities from the Skills Framework for the Information Age (SFIA) and the Leadership competencies for Queensland.
SFIA profile
Within the SFIA profile, the sourcing specialist has level 5 capabilities, i.e. ensures and advises on the skills outlined below.
Refer to the framework for descriptions of the seven levels of responsibility and accountability.
| SFIA skill code | SFIA skill level of responsibility | SFIA skills level descriptor |
|---|---|---|---|
Contract Management | ITCM | 5 | Oversees and measures the fulfillment of contractual obligations. Uses key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor and challenge performance and identify opportunities for continuous improvement. Develops strategies to address under-performance and compliance failures, including application of contract terms. Identifies where changes are required, evaluates the impact, and advises stakeholders about the implications and consequences for the business and/or the procurement element of programmes/projects. Negotiates variations and seeks appropriate authorisation. Actively supports and engages with experts and stakeholders to ensure continuous improvements are identified through review and benchmarking processes. Develops and implements change management protocols. |
Sourcing | SORC | 5 | Researches suppliers and markets, and maintains a broad understanding of the commercial environment, to inform and develop commercial strategies and sourcing plans. Advises on the business case for alternative sourcing models, and on policy and procedures covering the selection of suppliers, tendering, and procurement. Leads procurement teams, managing tender, evaluation and acquisition processes. Negotiates with potential partners and suppliers, developing acceptance criteria and procedures. Drafts and places contracts. |
Supplier management | SUPP | 4 | Collects supplier performance data and investigates problems. Monitors and reports on supplier performance, customer satisfaction, and market intelligence. Validates that suppliers' performance is in accordance with contract terms. Engages proactively and collaboratively with suppliers to resolve incidents, problems, or unsatisfactory performance. Implements supplier management-related service improvement initiatives and programmes. |
SFIA skillLeadership skills
Leadership competencies for Queensland describes what highly effective, everyday leadership looks like in the sector. In simple, action-oriented language, it provides a common understanding of the foundations for success across all roles. The profile describes three performance dimensions (vision, results and accountability) and 11 leadership competencies required against five leadership streams.
Leadership streams are not connected to a level or classification, but rather reflect the balance between leadership and technical skills required of an individual. Individuals can consider the value proposition of roles rather than the traditional lens of hierarchical structures or classification levels. The five leadership streams are:
- Individual contributor (Leads self and does not supervise others)
- Team leader (leads a team and typically reports to a program leader)
- Program leader (leads team leaders and/or multiple areas of work)
- Executive (leads program leaders or other executives)
- Chief executive (leads the organisation).
When developing a role description, identify the role type and then focus on the most important attributes and create a balance between SFIA skills and leadership skills.
Entry points
A formal qualification is not required, although a degree level qualification in business or finance are very highly regarded.