Strategic Buyer

At ABB, we help industries run leaner and cleaner—and every person here makes that happen. You’ll be empowered to lead, supported to grow, and proud of the impact we create together. Join us and help run what runs the world.

The Strategic Buyer is responsible for developing and implementing sourcing strategies to ensure a reliable, competitive, and sustainable supply of materials and services in support of business objectives. The role focuses on strategic sourcing, supplier relationship management, contract negotiations, cost optimization, risk mitigation, and continuous improvement across assigned procurement categories.

Working closely with internal stakeholders Tactical Buyers, Engineering, Production Planning, Quality, Finance, and suppliers, the Strategic Buyer drives supplier performance, secures favorable commercial conditions, mitigates supply chain risks, and contributes to the achievement of procurement objectives.

This position supports ABB Canada's Automation, Measurement & Analytics division and is based in Quebec City (3400 Rue Pierre-Ardouin). The work model is hybrid, with three days per week on site. This position reports to the Supply Chain Manager.

Responsibilities

• Strategic Sourcing and Procurement Strategies: Develop and implement sourcing strategies by analyzing markets, spending, and suppliers to optimize costs, quality, competitiveness, and supply reliability.
• Supplier Negotiations and Contract Management: Negotiate pricing, commercial terms, and contracts with suppliers while monitoring agreements, ensuring compliance with internal policies, and managing commercial risks.
• Supplier Relationship and Performance Management: Build relationships with strategic suppliers, monitor and improve their performance, assess their capabilities and risks, and implement improvement plans and alternative sourcing solutions as needed.
• Cost Optimization and Procurement Performance: Identify and implement sustainable cost-saving initiatives by analyzing costs and market trends, optimizing total cost of ownership, and contributing to budgeting and procurement performance monitoring.
• Supply Chain Risk Management and Business Continuity: Identify and mitigate risks related to suppliers, markets, and material availability by developing alternative sourcing solutions and collaborating with internal teams to prevent supply disruptions.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaborate with internal teams, including tactical procurement, engineering, quality, production, logistics, and finance, to align sourcing decisions with operational needs and support business projects.
• Procurement Governance and Continuous Improvement: Ensure compliance with procurement policies and processes, maintain accurate and comprehensive documentation, and continuously improve procurement practices through standardization, digitalization, and the integration of sustainability criteria.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, Procurement, Business Administration or a related field.
• Relevant experience in strategic sourcing, purchasing, procurement, or supplier management, preferably in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Experience leading supplier negotiations and managing commercial agreements.
• Experience with sourcing processes, RFQs/RFPs, cost analysis, and supplier performance management.
• Experience with ERP systems such as SAP is an asset.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications.
• Experience with spend analysis, cost-reduction initiatives, and procurement KPIs.
• Bilingual in French and English; English is required to communicate with global suppliers and stakeholders outside Québec.

Required competencies

• Strong negotiation and commercial decision-making skills.
• Strategic thinking and analytical capabilities.
• Excellent supplier relationship management and communication skills.
• Strong financial acumen and understanding of cost structures.
• Ability to assess and mitigate supply chain risks.
• Results-oriented mindset with a focus on sustainable cost savings and value creation.
• Ability to influence stakeholders and collaborate across functions.
• Strong project management, organization, and prioritization skills.
• Proactive approach to problem-solving and continuous improvement.

Employment Equity & Inclusion Statement (Canada)

ABB values the dedication, commitment, and expertise of all our employees. As an Employment Equity Employer, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We actively support the principles of the Employment Equity Act and strive to build a workforce that reflects Canada’s diversity, including:

• Women

• Indigenous Peoples

• Members of visible minorities

• Persons with disabilities

ABB is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you require accommodation during any stage of the recruitment process, we encourage you to let us know.