Strategic Sourcing Lead

About Surrey Schools

Surrey Schools acknowledges that our schools are situated on the traditional, unceded, and shared territories of the Coast Salish peoples: the q̓íc̓əy̓ - Katzie, q̓ʷa:n̓ƛ̓ən̓ - Kwantlen, and SEMYOME - Semiahmoo First Nations, the longstanding stewards of this land. As the largest school district in British Columbia and Surrey's second-largest employer, we serve over 82,000 students across 124 school sites and various learning facilities. Our diverse team of about 13,000 employees is dedicated daily to providing youth with a high-quality education and preparing them as future leaders.

Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

We strive to foster a diverse, inclusive, and accessible environment in all aspects of our organization for applicants, employees, students, and families. We value openness, fairness, and belonging, embracing a range of identities and perspectives. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and are committed to removing barriers to contribution.

Role Overview

Reporting to the Manager of Purchasing, the Strategic Sourcing Lead is pivotal in advancing Surrey Schools' strategic procurement efforts. The role involves leading comprehensive sourcing activities, cultivating supplier partnerships, and collaborating with internal teams to fulfill educational, operational, and fiscal goals. The position ensures adherence to policies, legal regulations, and public sector procurement standards, aiming to optimize cost-efficiency, delivery timeliness, innovation, and operational effectiveness.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Design and execute procurement policies and strategic sourcing plans for specific categories such as Capital Projects, Education, Facilities, and IT.
• Lead, supervise, and support the sourcing team to uphold procurement compliance and maximize efficiency.
• Recruit, train, and mentor procurement staff to foster a capable and motivated team.
• Guide multidisciplinary teams to implement category-based procurement strategies innovatively and collaboratively.
• Conduct thorough market research and evaluate suppliers to identify opportunities for cost reduction and process improvements.
• Manage vendor relationships through performance assessments, risk analysis, and service level monitoring.
• Establish and enforce performance benchmarks to ensure supplier compliance with expected standards.
• Collaborate closely with internal stakeholders to understand and address procurement needs effectively.
• Lead contract negotiations to secure advantageous terms that protect the organization's interests.
• Oversee procurement projects from start to finish, driving continuous process enhancements and expedited outcomes.
• Utilize data analytics tools to analyze vendor spending, usage patterns, and order metrics to inform strategic decisions.
• Keep abreast of industry trends, regulatory updates, and best practices to guide departmental advancements.

Qualifications and Experience

• At least six years of progressively responsible experience in procurement or a related discipline.
• Bachelor's degree in business administration, supply chain management, or related field preferred.
• Professional certifications or designations in supply chain or procurement management are highly valued.
• Minimum of three years leading complex procurement initiatives and teams.
• Experience in strategic sourcing across multiple commodity groups, including Capital Projects, IT, Furniture, Classroom Supplies, and Services.
• Familiarity with procurement tendering systems and RFx processes.
• Proven ability to manage and develop direct reports effectively.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong expertise in procurement ethics, principles, procedures, and public sector regulations.
• Comprehensive understanding of public procurement laws, governing treaties, and suitable tendering methodologies.
• Ability to select and apply appropriate tendering methods based on project requirements.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills that enable inspiring and motivating teams.
• Effective leadership and teamwork capabilities fostering high-performance cultures.
• Advanced skills in analytics, decision-making, negotiation, and project management.
• Capability to manage high workloads with competing priorities efficiently.
• Proficiency with eProcurement platforms, ERP systems, Microsoft Teams, Office Suite, Excel, and Power BI.
• Strong relationship management skills for collaborating with vendors, staff, and other stakeholders.

Licenses and Certifications

• Supply Chain Management Professional (SCMP) or an equivalent credential.
• Active participation in recognized supply chain-related associations.
• Project Management certification or equivalent is preferred.

Compensation and Benefits

• Annual salary ranges from $92,549 to $115,686 CAD, commensurate with qualifications and experience.
• Comprehensive benefits including extended medical, vision, dental coverage, life insurance, and disability plans.
• Access to Employee and Family Assistance Program.
• Participation in Municipal Pension Plan.
• Thirteen paid holidays in addition to sick leave and vacation time.
• A supportive and inclusive workplace culture promoting safety and authenticity.

Additional Information

Applicants must consent to a Criminal Records Search upon employment offer. Surrey Schools is committed to accommodating accessibility and diverse needs during the recruitment and interview process upon request. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. The closing date for applications is August 4, 2026, at 4:00 PM.