Procurement Analyst (Remote)

Company Description

At Lakeshore, we create innovative learning materials and world-class guest experiences for teachers, parents and children. Since 1954, we’ve grown into a global community—with a thriving e-commerce business, multiple catalogs, 60+ retail stores, a peerless national sales force, plus international offices that support our preeminent supply chain division. But today we’re working better, smarter and faster than ever—and setting our sights even higher. We’re building an infrastructure designed for scalability, embracing data-driven decision-making and using technology to improve efficiency and ensure the best tools for the best work. Most importantly, we continue to invest in a diverse team of inquisitive top talent who fuel each other’s passions and curiosity, take risks, try new things, and believe that every new day brings opportunities for growth.

Job Description

In a time of unprecedented expansion, we are seeking an experienced Procurement Analyst to join our team. In this role, you will use your knowledge, vendor relationships and experience with renewals to help optimize Lakeshore spending. The position also requires helping internal stakeholders define objectives and assist in achieving them. Applicants should be well versed in gathering data, communicating with vendors and alerting associates to potential outcomes. The ideal applicant has excellent communication and interpersonal skills, plus a high degree of professionalism in order to work closely with internal and external stakeholders at all levels. 

A day on the job looks like this: 

• Take ownership of renewals, purchases and negotiations of progressively increasing value 
• Manage “open projects” for necessary renewals, which entails reaching out to internal stakeholders and asking opening questions 
• Manage “close projects” for certain expedient closeouts, such as letting an agreement auto-renew, terminating the agreement or finalizing all closeout tasks 
• Author summary emails and reminder verbiage for internal use both for immediate and future need  
• Gather, compile, analyze and present data from a variety of sources either as part of a self-directed project or in support of other internal stakeholders’ objectives  
• Lead collaborative efforts that require multiple internal/external stakeholders for inputs  
• Proactively seek out information from internal/external sources  
• Demonstrate increasing expertise in redlining contracts and other documents  
• Create purchase orders as required 
• Analyze, give feedback on and dispute invoices related to CPR activities  
• Research questions relating to payment of invoices at the intersection of contracts signed by Lakeshore and terms/pricing/payment due date in conjunction with Lakeshore’s various payment systems  
• Compile data elements and resources that support Lakeshore in an invoice dispute situation  
• Use discretion and independent judgement to resolve invoice disputes 
• Document processes and create SOPs  
• Lead and participate in process-improvement initiatives 

Qualifications

Got the skills and experience? Here’s what we’re looking for: 

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution preferred 
• 3+ years of experience in a similar role required 
• Demonstrated mastery navigating communication and driving progress at the intersection of CPR, Legal and internal stakeholders  
• Demonstrated expertise in project management at increasingly difficult levels of complexity 
• High level of proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, Outlook, SharePoint) required 
• Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to maintain composure and professionalism at all times   
• Ability to work effectively and efficiently both remotely and on-site   
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment with shifting priorities 

Additional Information

And here’s our end of the bargain! 

• Hourly: $29-$35 with an annual bonus of up to 10%
• Paid leave for new parents to support work/life balance and family bonding
• Excellent medical/dental and vision coverage—EPO, PPO and HSA
• 401(k) retirement plan with company contribution (because you will retire someday)
• Flexible benefits—choose what you like, ignore the rest
• On-site preschool for our employees’ children
• On-site employee gym for all levels/fitness needs
• Generous employee discount
• Casual dress…and we really mean it

At Lakeshore, we know our diversity makes us stronger, and when everyone feels included and valued, we all win. We strive to embrace our differences and create an intentionally diverse and inclusive community that is representative of