Virtualization is the technology that is poised to change the way we think about computing. VMware (NYSE: VMW) is the global leader in virtualization solutions from the desktop to the datacenter. Customers of all sizes rely on VMware to reduce capital and operating expenses, ensure business continuity, strengthen security and go green. With 2008 revenues of $1.9 billion, more than 130,000 customers and more than 22,000 partners, VMware is one of the fastest-growing public software companies. VMware’s award-winning technology, market-leading position and culture of excellence provide the more than 6,600 passionate people we employ in 40 locations worldwide with a platform for professional growth and the excitement of being an early-stage innovator. 

Function 

As a member of the Global VMware Shared Services (GVSS) team, the Senior Buyer, Strategic Sourcing plays an EMEA role and will report to the Senior Buyer of Strategic Sourcing, Regional Champion based in Cork, Ireland. VMware is in the first stage of building a shared-service environment and this role will be part of a global team tasked to build an efficient future state design and realize the benefits of process and operational transformation. As the Senior Buyer for Strategic Sourcing, you will be responsible for implementing the sourcing strategy for the commodities which you support for EMEA.
 
VMware is a rapidly growing company with the opportunity for many exciting challenges. You must have the desire and ability to work in a dynamic and fast-paced environment in order to be successful in this role.

What’s in it for you? 

VMware brings together a phenomenal group of people. This includes a world-class development organization with unparalleled expertise in the system software space. The entire VMware team has created a unique business environment -- one of energy, creativity, and collaboration. The atmosphere is fun, casual, and inviting, in keeping with VMware's roots as a successful entrepreneurial start up. 


Primary Responsibilities will include 

• Partner with the business units to review spend analysis and identify opportunities for tenders, to lead to cost savings and increased contract coverage and engage with the BUs to formulate a sourcing strategy for key commodities / areas of spend. 
• Track and report savings in accordance with the savings reporting methodology for Strategic Sourcing and the Buy Desk, to ensure savings are reported at the time of negotiation and also tracked to ensure they are realized (e.g. a tariff rate change) 
• On-going monitoring of Strategic Sourcing delivery against defined SLA and performance metrics, such as cost savings targets, and trouble shooting as required 
• Identify areas of spend on which to focus to drive results as per departmental goals of 
o Spend analysis 
o Requests for tenders 
o Cost savings 
o Increased contract coverage 
• Define policies & procedures and controls within sub processes as requested by other GVSS GPOs and Regional Champions 
• Assist with recruitment and training of Strategic Sourcing personnel 
• Ensure urgent business critical projects are addressed or escalated to Strategic Sourcing management as appropriate 
• Coordinate and partner with suppliers and internal customers to deliver best practice operations and communications 
• Foster communication and teamwork within and across organizational boundaries 

Education and Experience 

• Attained a third level qualification in a business or technical field 
• A purchasing qualification, such as the IIPMM certificate or diploma, an advantage 
• Three to seven plus years experience required 
• Experience in an indirect Purchasing environment an advantage, as is experience in a Finance Shared Services Environment 
• Strong computer skills, particularly with Microsoft Office 
• Experience of using a Purchasing software package, for example Oracle or SAP, an advantage 
• Strong experience of working on pricing exercises, tenders and negotiations 
• Strong communication and business analysis skills are required 
• Should be numerate and have excellent attention to detail 
• Experience of leading a vendor negotiation an advantage 
• Familiarity with contract negotiation an advantage 
• Needs to be able to work as part of a team, both within Purchasing and with other functional groups 
• Must be a self starter who is willing to work on their own initiative and must be goals focused 
• Must enjoy working in a dynamic and challenging environment