Procurement Specialist

About Ascent

Ascent Global Logistics, headquartered in Belleville, Michigan, is a leading global provider of expedited, time-critical logistics solutions and other direct transportation services. The company connects customers to its extensive carrier network, internal ground fleet and airline via its proprietary, digital PEAK freight marketplace, which provides robust carrier capacity and transparent pricing, backed by 24/7/365 logistics experts. Ascent’s offerings include air charter and ground expedited solutions as well as truckload, less-than-truckload, global forwarding, brokerage, and managed transportation services. The experienced Ascent team solves customers’ most challenging logistics needs by providing industry-leading service and top-tier satisfaction.

Our Guiding Principles

At the core of Ascent's culture is a strong commitment to excellence, driven by the passion and dedication of every team member. We're equally dedicated to going above and beyond for our customers, ensuring this commitment extends beyond our team and brings exceptional value to those we serve. We aim for perfect execution in everything we do and ‘play hard’ by creating an environment where tasks are performed with a can-do attitude from start to finish. We ‘play smart’ by delivering on our commitments in an honest, fair and ethical manner. We treat every person with whom we interface with the utmost dignity and respect. We understand that our teammates are our most valuable assets, so we ‘play together’ by making every effort to provide a professional and enjoyable experience, enabling careers to flourish and personal growth to be achieved.

What You’ll Do

The Procurement Specialist is responsible for performing day-to-day purchasing and procurement support activities within the company’s cloud-based procure-to-pay (P2P) software.  The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with modern procurement software and processes and will use the platform to streamline purchasing, ensure accurate and complete purchase orders are processed within the system, and ensure compliance with company policies. This role requires strong analytical and communication skills to collaborate with internal teams and external suppliers in some instances. The position operates under established guidelines and direction from management, with limited independent decision-making authority.  

System & Documentation Management: 

• Maintaining system configuration settings with the input of key stakeholders. Including system users, approvers, item codes, workflows, and other key maintenance items.  
• Maintaining accurate records of purchases and other procurement-related activities. 
• Providing feedback on suppliers to the appropriate team so that databases are kept up to date. 
• Facilitating the creation and processing of purchase orders by working with business stakeholders. 
• Ensuring all procurement documentation and SOPs are kept up-to-date and organized. 

Administrative & Operational Support: 

• Create electronic purchase requisitions and purchase orders within the procurement system. 
• Manage and track the automated approval workflow for all purchase requests. 
• Coordinate with suppliers to ensure accurate and on-time delivery of goods and services.  Support receipt of goods and services as well.  
• Reconcile invoices against purchase orders and resolve exceptions or discrepancies using the platform while ensuring compliance with company policies. 
• Generate reports and use available analytics to monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and track spending, helping to identify cost-saving opportunities.  
• Providing administrative and clerical support to the supply chain and procurement departments. 
• Preparing and sending standard requests for quotation (RFQs) to suppliers. 
• Supporting internal teams with procurement process training and support as needed.  This would include individuals and group training and support as business needs dictate. 
• Supporting internal teams with procurement-related information and resources. 
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders and finance teams to address procurement needs and ensure budget compliance. 

Process Improvement: 

• Assisting with the creation and maintenance of procurement procedures and guidelines. 
• Monitoring the effectiveness of procurement processes and identifying potential areas for improvement. 

What You’ll Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Finance or related field. 
• 2-4 years procurement experience; transportation industry and procurement system experience a plus.
• Proficiency in using relevant procurement and database software, i.e. Esker Procurement 
• Procurement expertise: Strong understanding of procurement principles, including sourcing, negotiation, vendor management, and purchasing processes. 
• Technical proficiency: Familiarity with procurement software or ERP systems, and the ability to adapt to new technologies quickly. 
• Analytical skills: Strong ability to analyze data related to spending and supplier performance, and to generate actionable reports. 
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills to interact effectively with both internal teams and external suppliers. 
• Problem-solving: Ability to identify and resolve issues, such as invoice matching discrepancies or approval bottlenecks, within the Esker workflow. 
• Organizational skills: High attention to detail and strong time management skills to handle multiple priorities effectively. 
• Understanding of the purchase and procurement process.  
• Knowledge of supply chain principles and best practices 

Ascent’s Competitive Benefits

• 401(k) and employer matching

• Life Insurance

• Health, Dental, Vision Insurance

• Short- & Long-Term Disability

• Paid Time Off (PTO)

• Employee Assistance Program

• Paid Parental Leave

• Employee Wellness Program

• Paid Holidays

• Employee Recognition Programs

• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

• Tuition Reimbursement

• Health Savings Account (HSA)

• Overtime, Differential & Bonus Pay