Procurement Operations Specialist

Job Ad ABOUT THE POSITION The Procurement Operations Specialist (India GCC) supports both local India and global purchasing procure‑to‑pay (P2P) operations, ensuring accurate, timely, and compliant execution of procurement activities. While some transactional activities are system‑enabled, this role frequently applies operational judgment to resolve issues, answer inquiries, and support non‑standard scenarios across the purchasing lifecycle. Serving as a knowledgeable resource on Columbia’s procurement processes and tools, the Specialist works closely with internal stakeholders, suppliers, and downstream partners such as Accounts Payable to ensure smooth end‑to‑end execution. This role contributes to continuous improvement by identifying opportunities to reduce rework, clarify process handoffs, and improve overall efficiency and user experience. HOW YOU’LL MAKE A DIFFERENCE 40% Monitor and manage the purchase order process for both local and global purchasing needs through Columbia’s procurement system, ensuring accuracy of pricing, documentation, and compliance prior to order release. 20%Serve as a point of contact for internal stakeholders and suppliers regarding procurement processes, providing guidance and resolving inquiries. Provide training, coaching, and hands‑on support to business partners to improve process understanding, reduce rework, and drive adoption of procurement tools and standard ways of working. 20%Partner closely with Accounts Payable and requesting departments to ensure accuracy of P2P process, and resolve purchasing, invoicing and receiving issues. Act as an operational bridge across upstream and downstream partners to prevent errors, reduce cycle time, and improve end‑to‑end P2P outcomes. 10%Support new supplier onboarding, including intake, validation, and registration. Coordinate supplier enablement and catalog programs. Coordinate with category management and sourcing teams to ensure timely supplier setup to support sourcing activities. 5%Participate in and drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency and effectiveness of the procurement function including identification of recurring issues and opportunities to simplify the process. 5%Perform other duties as assigned in support of procurement operational objectives. YOU ARE: Strong customer service mindset and ability to build relationships Experience in process improvement, automation, cost reduction, or new project initiatives. Knowledge of purchasing best practices and processes Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal Strong problem solving mindset Continuous improvement mindset with a focus on operational efficiency Ability to train and coach stakeholders effectively Strong organizational skills and attention to detail Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; experience with eProcurement systems preferred YOU HAVE: Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, or related field preferred. 5+ years of experience in procurement operations, purchasing, or related roles. Experience with eProcurement systems (e.g., Ariba) preferred. Strong experience in Procurement Operations / Procure-to-Pay (P2P). Hands-on experience in SAP and Ariba (mandatory). Strong experience in PO processing and end-to-end procurement operations. Experience in Vendor Onboarding and supplier management is a plus. #LI-SA1 #Hybrid This job description is not meant to be an all-inclusive list of duties and responsibilities, but constitutes a general definition of the position's scope and function in the company. Founded in 1938, Columbia Sportswear Company is a global leader in designing, sourcing, marketing, and distributing outdoor and active lifestyle apparel, footwear, accessories, and equipment. Our four primary brands — Columbia®, Mountain Hardwear®, SOREL® and prAna® — complement each other to address the diverse needs of active consumers and their products have gained an international reputation for their innovation, quality and performance. Learn more about our family of brands here.