Strategic Sourcing Specialist – Professional Services

About the role

Cohere is looking for a Strategic Sourcing Specialist to support its Professional Services procurement function. The role focuses on executing strategic sourcing activities across key categories such as consulting, marketing, legal and communications. You will partner with FP&A, Accounting, Legal and business stakeholders to drive cost‑optimization and efficient procurement processes.

Key responsibilities

• Manage procurement and sourcing for Professional Services categories including consulting, marketing events, legal and communications.
• Develop and execute strategic sourcing initiatives to optimize cost and service quality.
• Own the end‑to‑end procurement lifecycle from needs assessment through contract execution.
• Lead RFP/RFQ processes, evaluate vendors and negotiate contracts.
• Implement category management strategies and conduct market research, benchmarking and competitive analysis.
• Drive cost‑optimization initiatives, track savings and analyze spending patterns.
• Manage contract lifecycle, renewals, amendments and terminations.
• Maintain vendor relationships, evaluate performance and ensure compliance with procurement policies.
• Bridge procurement and accounting functions to ensure proper PO management and payments.
• Prepare reports on procurement performance, savings and vendor management.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Procurement, Finance, Business or related field.
• 8‑10 years of progressive procurement experience, with proven leadership in professional services categories.
• Strong strategic sourcing, negotiation and category management expertise.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct market research, benchmarking, RFP development and supplier evaluation.
• Track record of cost‑optimization and savings achievement.
• Experience with procurement software, ERP systems and P2P processes.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving and communication skills.

Required skills

• Omnea procurement software
• ERP systems