Sourcing
Sourcing is the process of finding, evaluating, and working with suppliers to get products, materials, or services that a company needs. It's like professional shopping for businesses, but much more complex. Sourcing professionals look for the best combination of quality, price, and reliability when choosing suppliers. They help companies save money, ensure products arrive on time, and manage relationships with vendors. This role is crucial in manufacturing, retail, and any business that needs to buy materials or products. You might also see this called "procurement," "purchasing," or "vendor management."
Examples in Resumes
Managed Sourcing strategies that reduced supply costs by 15%
Led global Strategic Sourcing initiatives for raw materials
Developed Direct Sourcing relationships with manufacturers in Asia
Implemented new Sourcing processes that improved supplier delivery times
Typical job title: "Sourcing Managers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Sourcing Managers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Boards
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you develop a global sourcing strategy for a new product line?
Expected Answer: A strong answer should cover risk assessment, supplier evaluation criteria, cost analysis, quality control measures, and how to balance various factors like cost, quality, and delivery time. They should mention experience leading similar projects.
Q: Tell me about a time you had to manage a major supply chain crisis.
Expected Answer: Look for examples showing leadership in crisis management, ability to quickly develop alternative solutions, and experience maintaining supplier relationships during difficult situations.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you evaluate and select new suppliers?
Expected Answer: Should explain their process for comparing suppliers, including checking financial stability, quality standards, pricing, delivery capabilities, and reference checks.
Q: What strategies do you use to negotiate better terms with suppliers?
Expected Answer: Should discuss preparation techniques, understanding market conditions, building relationships, and finding win-win solutions while maintaining good supplier relationships.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What factors do you consider when comparing supplier quotes?
Expected Answer: Should mention basic elements like price, delivery time, quality standards, minimum order quantities, and payment terms.
Q: How do you maintain good relationships with suppliers?
Expected Answer: Should discuss regular communication, prompt payment, clear expectations, and professional courtesy in day-to-day interactions.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic supplier communication
- Purchase order processing
- Supplier research
- Basic cost comparison
Mid (2-5 years)
- Supplier negotiation
- Contract management
- Cost analysis
- Vendor relationship management
Senior (5+ years)
- Global sourcing strategy
- Risk management
- Team leadership
- Strategic supplier partnerships
Red Flags to Watch For
- No experience with supplier relationship management
- Lack of negotiation skills
- Poor understanding of supply chain basics
- No knowledge of contract terms and conditions
- Unable to explain cost analysis methods
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
Sourcing Strategies That Actually Work: A Modern Recruiter's Guide
Cracking the Code: How to Source Talent in APAC and EMEA with Cultural Sensitivity
When Hiring from Competitors: Goldmine or Landmine?
