Job Details

Strategic Procurement Advisor (Associate Director) - US

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Location: Anywhere in Country.

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The opportunity

The Strategic Procurement Advisor (SPA) creates and drives strategic relationships with client procurement teams, specifically the CPO, to position EY for competitive and sole‑source revenue opportunities and account expansion. The SPA becomes the “go‑to EY resource” for influencing client procurement, partnering with the Global Client Services Partner (GCSP), Client Executive (CE), and other Service Line and Sector leaders to close new business opportunities.

Your Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with P&CE leaders, GCSPs, and account managers to prioritize accounts and opportunities where SPA services can drive revenue and improve profitability.
• Lead efforts with account teams to develop and execute negotiation strategies for new and existing client accounts, including assessment of procurement relationships, contractual terms, and pricing.
• Provide strategic guidance to GCSPs and account managers before and during negotiations, advising on key tangibles such as MSA, Rate Cards, Preferred Provider Programs, Supplier Enabled Innovation, etc.
• Assess coaching needs, develop training approaches, and conduct business meetings to build partner engagement and negotiation talent.
• Direct internal training sessions and workshops for diverse audiences within P&CE, Sector, and Service Lines on negotiation preparation, script writing, contractual terms, and procurement strategy.
• Collaborate with account teams to develop EY's RFP responses leveraging client procurement insights.
• Partner with account teams to sustain and expand existing procurement relationships, building senior‑level connections and understanding client decision‑making.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to translate client procurement needs into strategic solutions and advise internal teams accordingly.
• Lead discussions with client procurement teams to understand requirements and align solutions with business goals.
• Conduct market analysis and provide insights on emerging trends, risks, and opportunities for strategic sourcing.
• Lead negotiations with client procurement teams to secure favorable terms while fostering collaboration.
• Maintain knowledge of industry regulations, compliance, and ethical procurement practices.
• Continuously measure and improve procurement strategies based on client feedback.

Skills and Attributes for Success

• In‑depth experience in procurement, IT and business process services marketplace, managed services model, and strategic industry trends.
• Strong negotiation background and direct negotiation experience.
• Knowledge of strategic account planning and business development principles.
• Understanding of relevant laws, regulations, and contract terms.
• Excellent negotiation and influencing skills.
• Clear verbal and written communication abilities.
• Strong analytical and logical reasoning skills.
• Excellent judgment and decision‑making capabilities.

What We Look For

• Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in procurement, strategic sourcing, supplier management, and business development.
• Exceptional negotiation skills, including high‑stakes negotiations and relationship building.
• In‑depth knowledge of procurement best practices and market trends.
• Experience speaking at procurement industry events and CPO connections.
• Proficiency with procurement software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Customer‑focused mindset with commitment to exceeding expectations.
• Commitment to ethical procurement and sustainability initiatives.
• Ability to work collaboratively and build relationships internally and externally.
• Prior consulting or advisory experience.
• Experience negotiating with C‑suite level executives in large organizations.
• Experience leading high‑performance teams.
• Knowledge of AI technologies and their application to business processes.
• Bachelor's degree (BA/BS) in a related discipline; advanced degree preferred.

Certifications

• Purchasing or procurement certification (e.g., CSCP, CPSM) is preferred.

Other Requirements

• Travel may be required and may involve late or odd‑hour work.
• Experience leading virtual teams and embracing diversity in outcomes.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and writing skills.

Additional Information

Seniority level: Director; Employment type: Full‑time; Job function: Purchasing and Supply Chain; Industries: Professional Services.

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