Procurement Operations Specialist

Introduction

At IBM Finance & Operations, we serve as the essential foundation of IBM's transformation, fostering efficiency, transparency, and informed decision-making throughout the organization. Our teams deliver the insights and discipline necessary to guide strategic initiatives, maintain financial robustness, and support IBM's investments in innovation and growth. A career in Finance & Operations requires a blend of analytical abilities, collaboration, and inquisitiveness. You will collaborate with colleagues from various functions and regions, utilizing data, technology, and process excellence to develop solutions that enhance performance and yield measurable outcomes. IBM is committed to continuous learning, career progression, and fostering a culture that embraces diverse viewpoints. Join us to be part of a global team that propels IBM forward while you shape your future in a vibrant and evolving environment.

Your Role And Responsibilities

As a Procurement Operations Specialist, you will deliver professional support for purchase order processing and execute tactical sourcing activities. Your responsibilities will include negotiating with suppliers, establishing and nurturing relationships with IBM clients and suppliers, and ensuring adherence to IBM Procurement policies.

Your Primary Responsibilities Will Include

• Purchase Order Processing: Handle requests from IBM clients, negotiate with suppliers, and finalize purchases in accordance with IBM Procurement policies.
• Relationship Management: Establish and sustain relationships with IBM clients and suppliers through proficient written and verbal communication.
• Problem Resolution: Utilize problem-solving skills to address challenges in the purchasing process and mitigate any adverse effects on the client's experience.
• Procurement Tool Utilization: Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of procurement-related tools to process POs and document supplier/PO information effectively.
• Invoice Resolution: Address aged open POs and resolve any blocked invoices for suppliers.
  
  

Required Technical And Professional Expertise

Required Qualifications / Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in business, Supply Chain, Procurement, Sourcing, or a related discipline.
• Generally possesses 1-4 years of experience in procurement operations, PR to PO processes, sourcing support, finance operations, shared services, or customer support roles.
• Experience in SLA-driven environments and supporting stakeholders on a global scale.
• Background in Supplier Enablement, Vendor Management, Procurement Operations, or Procure-to-Pay processes.
  
  

Preferred Technical And Professional Experience

• In-depth knowledge of purchase order-based invoice matching, three-way matching, and goods receipt/invoice receipt reconciliation.
• Familiarity with SAP, Oracle, Ariba, Coupa, or similar ERP and procurement systems.
  
  

Strong comprehension of supplier onboarding, vendor master data management, supplier lifecycle oversight, procurement controls, and compliance standards.

• Awareness of invoice exception management, supplier query resolution, and case management workflows.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and root-cause analysis abilities.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills for effective engagement with stakeholders and suppliers.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and reporting or analytics tools.