operations

Procurement Specialist full_time

Kepler is on an audacious mission: to bring the internet to space. Founded in 2015, our ambition is to provide internet connectivity in space, whether in LEO, MEO, GEO, or beyond. With an expanding base of early customers and our first 23 satellites in orbit, Kepler is continuing to grow and expand its most important asset – the Team!
As Procurement Specialist, you will be a critical member of the Kepler team and responsible for leading complex procurements for our projects.  This role is a mid to senior individual contributor with no current direct reports. 
 
In this truly exciting position, there will be a mix of following established and routine processes while also having the opportunity to improve the day-to-day of our sourcing, procurement, logistics and inventory management activities. We’ll be looking to you to maintain the processes playbook and implement new systems to add value to our supply chain activities.
 
If you’re the person who refuses to accept “because that’s how we’ve always done it”, and someone with an “I’ll figure it out” attitude, we want to hear from you!

Responsibilities:

  • Execute on procurement strategies in conjunction with Integrated Product Teams, projects, and departments.
  • Develop new sources of supply, conduct desktop or on-site supplier capability assessments and establish strategic alliances.
  • Process purchase requisitions into purchase orders (POs) for goods and services using Netsuite software, send POs to vendors, and follow up on outstanding POs
  • Communicate with suppliers to obtain product or service information such as cost, lead times, availability of stock, and delivery schedules
  • Identify, analyze and realize cost reduction opportunities during sourcing, procurement, and logistics activities.
  • Act as single interface with suppliers of new and existing business.
  • Support development of procurement policies and procedures ensuring that Kepler follows all applicable laws and regulations.
  • Supports preparation, presentation and execution of agreement documents covering contracts for goods and services.
  • Regularly reports and reviews procurement/contracts performance with Project Management Office
  • Keeps documented records of commitments made between Kepler and its suppliers.
  • Coordinate and lead negotiations of any claims and defects with suppliers.
  • Actively participate in supplier scorecard and program management reviews.
  • Report on claims, contract change management and risk.
  • Continuously align, improve and modernize procurement practices to improve business performance and customer satisfaction. 

Requirements:

  • 3 to 5 years’ experience in a relevant industry (aerospace, defence, automotive or FMCG preferred)
  • Experience with Canadian, US and European procurement processes and laws.
  • Bachelor’s degree in procurement, supply chain management, operations or equivalent. 
  • Strong decision-making skills, as well as the ability to organize and prioritize work.
  • Ability to collaborate broadly with peers and stakeholders, internally within Kepler, and with partners and customers, as well as handle complaints, settle disputes and resolve conflicts.
  • Demonstrated leadership ability that includes effective communication, interpersonal, and negotiating skills to operate effectively with all with organizational work experience. 
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills are essential to this position.
  • Demonstrated ability to work autonomously and as a member of a high performing team.
  • High motivation with a proven ability to adapt quickly in dynamic environments.
  • Experience with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems as well as MS Office proficiency.
  • Ability to work towards aggressive deadlines, in team and individual setting, in a timely manner. 
  • Available for business travel as required (less than 20% of the time). 

Bonus Points:

  • Experience with NetSuite Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems.
  • Experience with the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMAC)
  • Experience in the Space industry
Kepler Communications Inc. is committed to fostering an inclusive, accessible environment, where all employees and customers feel valued, respected and supported. We welcome applications from: women, Aboriginal persons, persons with disabilities, ethnic minorities, visible minorities, people who identify as LGBT and others who may contribute to diversification in our workplace.
As part of our commitment to accessibility for all persons with disabilities, Kepler will, upon the request of the applicant, provide accommodation during the recruitment process to ensure equal access to applicants with disabilities. Please contact our People & Culture team, through our Career Page to make your accommodation needs known and we will consult with you to ensure suitable accommodation is provided.

Job Overview