As this is a hybrid position working out of our Creative Studios in Westlake, Ohio, we will focus on candidates currently residing in Northeast Ohio.GENERAL SUMMARY:Responsible for managing all aspects of category/ commodity of the supplier relationship including compliance with our delivery, terms, quality, inventory goals and policies; and finalizing and communicating specifications for products and services required, qualifying suppliers, soliciting competitive proposals, negotiating price, terms, quality and service. Selecting suppliers for assigned categories/commodities. Interfaces with various departments to provide a high level of support and service.ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:* Interfaces with various departments on projects/programs including Creative, Product Management, Fulfillment, Manufacturing, Legal, Risk Management. Help establish specifications for products and services and support requirements, within assigned category/commodity, services.* Prepare and negotiate RFP's.* Sources new suppliers for key categories/commodities, evaluating and analyzing their capabilities to fulfill American Greetings needs for products and services. Providing innovation, competitive pricing, and quality.* Ensure ongoing supplier development, to improve supply chain performance.* Responsible for resolving quality issues with suppliers on products/services received.* Identifies, evaluates and implements cost reduction strategies within the supply chain process.* Responsible for drafting service and supply agreements. Reviews these agreements with Legal and management.* Responsible for training, instructing and supervising.* Develop and implement procurement strategies that align with business objectives.* Conduct market research and analyze industry trends to identify cost savings opportunities.* Collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure alignment with business needs and priorities.* Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the procurement function.* Prepare and present procurement reports and analytics to senior management.* All other duties as assigned by supervisor/manager.This company is an equal opportunity employer and makes employment decisions without regard to race, gender, disability or protected veteran status. We desire to place a priority on referrals of protected veterans. EOE M/F/disability/vet VEVRAA Federal Contractor