Associate Director, Procurement at Los Angeles Lakers
Job Description
Job Title: Associate Director, Procurement
Department: Finance & Accounting
Reports to: Chief Accounting Officer
Manages: Accounts Payable & Procurement Specialist
Position Summary: The Associate Director, Procurement is responsible for leading the sourcing, purchasing, and negotiation of goods and services necessary for the organization’s operations. This role demands strategic thinking, strong negotiation skills, and a deep understanding of market dynamics to optimize procurement strategies and drive cost efficiencies.
Key metrics used to evaluate performance:
- Procurement cycle timeliness (RFQ/RFP turnaround and completion)
- Cost savings and cost avoidance achieved through sourcing activities
- Use of analytical and problem-solving skills
- Openness of communication with supervisor, all members of the Finance & Accounting department, and the organization as a whole
- Documentation completeness and audit readiness
- Accuracy and reliability of information provided in work products
- Level of detail used when completing responsibilities
- Performing duties independently without heavy supervision
Essential Functions (Duties & Responsibilities**):
Sourcing Execution & Business Support
- Oversee the procurement process, including requisition, sourcing, RFX, purchasing, and delivery
- Conduct vendor outreach and negotiate contracts with suppliers for both basketball and business operations to secure favorable terms and conditions
Stakeholder Participation
- Act as the primary point of contact for procurement-related support and guidance
- Collaborate with and support internal stakeholders to understand their procurement requirements and making informed, value-driven purchasing decisions
- Educate stakeholders on procurement policies, processes and best practices
Vendor & Market Management
- Identify and evaluate potential vendors and suppliers based on quality, price, and reliability
- Monitor supplier performance and resolve any issues or disputes that may arise
- Stay abreast of market trends, economic factors, and regulatory changes that may impact procurement
- Contribute to development of a “Preferred Vendor” database
Governance & Compliance
- Lead and mentor the procurement team, providing guidance and support to achieve departmental goals
- Ensure sourcing activities align with procurement policy, thresholds and documentation standards Evaluate current procurement-related tools and workflows to identify gaps and improvement opportunities
- Develop and implement procurement strategies to optimize cost savings and operational efficiency
- Maintain centralized procurement documentation to ensure consistency, transparency and audit readiness
**Responsibilities subject to change based on organizational needs and direction from management.
Education/ Certifications: Bachelor’s degree, with a focus in analytical disciplines (i.e., Economics, Business Management, Supply Chain, etc.). An equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above
Previous experience:
- 8+ years of experience in operations (supply chain, logistics, procurement, demand planning, and finance).
- Proficiency in standard sourcing concepts, practices, and procedures
- Experience managing global/local suppliers or complex supply chains
- Leading cross-functional projects
- Handling budgets or cost-saving initiatives
- Managing supplier negotiations and contracts
Technology Capabilities:
- Proficiency in ERP, AP, and Procurement software (e.g., SAP, Ariba, Oracle and NetSuite)
- Proficiency with data analytic tools (Tableau, PowerBI)
- Advanced level knowledge of Microsoft Office (emphasis on Excel and PowerPoint)
Knowledge, skills, abilities:
- Excellent communication and presentation skills (both written and verbal)
- Effective interpersonal skills with the ability to work cross-functionally and establish positive relationships
- Strong experience in vendor management for procurement (i.e. you have been direct liaison with procurement partner)
- Strong project management skills -- knows how to navigate very dynamic global and national supply chains to find ways to deliver on time while managing cost
- Strong understanding of product economics/P&Ls
- Strong negotiation skills
- Experience in some type of contracting/volume buying
- Superior analytical skills and operational modeling capabilities
- Strong innovative and creative problem-solving skills
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, energetic, and high growth environment
- Someone who emphasizes customer service and collaboration with internal partners
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment
Physical Demands: N/A
Location: El Segundo (offices M-F), and other occasional off-site events, as needed
Travel: Less than 5% of the time
Hours: Regular office hours (9am- 5:30pm M-F), must be available to work evenings, weekends and holidays
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