Procurement Specialist

About Abbott

Abbott is a global healthcare leader dedicated to helping people live more fully at all stages of life. Our portfolio of life-changing technologies spans diagnostics, medical devices, nutritionals, and branded generic medicines. With 114,000 colleagues, we serve people in over 160 countries.

The Opportunity: Procurement Specialist

As a Procurement Specialist in Carlsbad, CA, you will leverage your experience and procurement knowledge to execute supply management strategies developed by Category Managers. This role involves significant interaction with internal and external customers and various Divisions to resolve issues and ensure high levels of customer service across multiple verticals. You will be responsible for operational and tactical procurement activities for diverse categories.

This position grants delegated authority to commit company funds, contributing significantly to cost savings and fostering strong partnerships with suppliers and internal stakeholders. You will proactively seek innovative ways to improve procurement processes, reduce cycle times, and enhance customer service. A full understanding of Abbott's “One Procurement” strategies is essential, alongside a strong ability to contribute to and manage projects across multiple categories that positively impact the team. You will work within defined processes and procedures, and may also help determine appropriate approaches for process changes.

What You'll Do

• Serve as the first line responder, balancing strategic, operational, and transactional sourcing tasks.
• Execute against category strategies under the guidance of strategic category leaders.
• Manage Statements of Work (SOWs), Requests for Information (RFIs), and ordering documents.
• Assist with supplier selection processes.
• Address and resolve day-to-day supply issues efficiently.
• Analyze possible solutions using standard procedures to ensure effective problem-solving.
• Communicate pertinent information to both internal customers and suppliers to keep them informed and prevent potential problems.
• Execute ad-hoc and one-off purchases as needed.
• Support Purchase Order (PO) conversion for non-transactional items and engage in some negotiations.
• Educate internal stakeholders on existing solutions and contribute to performance and technology tools development.
• Lead the resolution of issues and invoice errors.
• Manage PO change requests and communicate trends in changes to relevant teams.
• Enable supplier integration and monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).
• Drive significant cost savings outcomes through effective procurement practices.
• Collaborate effectively with various internal functions.
• Create and implement Requests for Proposal (RFPs).
• Perform routine professional-based activities and contribute to or manage specific projects.
• Communicate with appropriate departments to clarify requests and obtain necessary supporting documentation for purchases.
• Implement agreed-upon purchasing strategies for designated categories.
• Seek and support business relationships with diverse suppliers.
• Meet regularly with divisional customers and support functions to ensure high customer satisfaction and continuous improvement.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Science, Business, Finance, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and work experience.
• Minimum of 2 years of procurement and functional experience.
• Strong interpersonal skills, excellent problem-solving abilities, and proficiency in spreadsheet programs.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong interdisciplinary, intercultural, influence, and networking skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• CPM certification is highly desired.

What Abbott Offers

At Abbott, you can find a fulfilling job that leads to a great career. We are committed to providing a supportive and rewarding work environment, offering:

• A fast-paced work environment where your safety is our priority.
• Production areas that are clean, well-lit, and temperature-controlled.
• Comprehensive training and career development programs, including onboarding for new employees and tuition assistance.
• Financial security through competitive compensation, performance incentives, and robust retirement plans.
• Extensive health care and well-being programs, including medical, dental, vision, wellness initiatives, and occupational health services.
• Generous paid time off.
• 401(k) retirement savings with a substantial company match.
• The stability of a company with a proven record of strong financial performance and active involvement in local communities.

Learn more about our benefits that add real value to your life to help you live fully at http://www.abbottbenefits.com/pages/candidate.aspx. Follow your career aspirations to Abbott for diverse opportunities with a company that provides the growth and strength to build your future. Abbott is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to employee diversity. Connect with us at www.abbott.com, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Abbott, and on Twitter @AbbottNews and @AbbottGlobal.

Key skills/competency

• Procurement
• Supply Management
• Supplier Relations
• Negotiation
• Cost Savings
• Contract Management
• RFP Management
• Problem Solving
• Spreadsheet Proficiency
• Customer Service