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Ace Hardware Corporation

Cost Engineering Analyst

Ace Hardware Corporation, Oak Brook, Illinois, United States, 60523

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Overview

Cost Engineering Analyst at Ace Hardware Corporation The Cost Engineering Analyst evaluates cost, commodity and market data to identify and set cost out goals, then coordinates and partners with cross functional teams to develop and execute cost out strategies using Cost Engineering tools, including but not limited to competitive bidding, presentation and negotiations materials, analysis on CTQ, consumer review, survey, assortment, should-cost, competitive, and demand transfer data. What You’ll Do

Mine, combine and assess facts from 3rd party experts, publications, vendors and internal partners (Cat Mgmt, Finance, Domestic Merchants, Import Merchants, Pricing) to identify and prioritize cost engineering opportunities Monitor changes in commodity markets, industry shifts (M&A), product innovations to evaluate changes in negotiation gaps / leverage Use input cost models and price opportunity reporting to identify off-cycle cost out opportunities Synthesize product, assortment, competitive and market research into actionable insights and opportunities for cost negotiations through the Cost Engineering process Review spend data to help prioritize areas of focus Research cost drivers across various industries, vendors and products Learn the key metrics, CTQ, features and drivers for different product categories Leverage consumer data/reviews, surveys, interviews and pilot programs to test assumptions and assess brand value Use demand transfer data and margin impact models to evaluate assortment updates impacts, quantify negotiation tradeoffs and prioritize recommendations for merchants Identify inconsistencies in vendor pricing architecture to demonstrate the need for cost concessions Incorporate merchant expertise and context into analysis to account for nuance and real-world factors Serve as an independent, unbiased thought contributor capable of using data to make recommendations others may have overlooked and to influence cross-functional stakeholders Track project milestones and resolve roadblocks to ensure project timelines stay on track Coordinate and host recurring category team meetings to investigate opportunities, assess vendor bids and craft negotiation strategies Maintain a repository of facts, analysis, dashboards, charts and findings for respective projects Conduct negotiation training and mock negotiations Author materials for and participate in vendor negotiations using fact-based analysis Manage line review bid process using an eRFx platform (program creation, coding scenarios, impact analysis, troubleshoot issues, coordinate vendor communications, track and report on progress) Employ analytics tools (eRFx, Alteryx, Power BI, Excel, Databricks) to evaluate bid scenarios, calculate cost savings and profit margin impacts Efficiently run detailed financial analysis for scenario testing and cost out projections Provide recurring performance and execution updates Refine should-cost models and commodity insights, establish cost out goals, and identify margin growth prospects Accumulate expertise and insights on raw material markets and manufacturing processes Manage list of negotiation tactics in Merchandising Leverage Library Introduce and drive CE best practices; lead continuous improvement of analytic tools, methodologies, and visualization for the CE team Help refine and enhance cost reporting in Power BI Collaborate with Merchandising, Category Management, Finance and Pricing Advice on the differences in commodity prices and manufacturing processes Occasionally perform Ace and competitor product tear downs What You Will Need

Able to interpret complex, large volume and sometimes contradictory data to develop fact-backed insights and strategies Demonstrated analytic abilities with an emphasis on critical thinking, root cause analysis, and problem solving required Ability to collaborate effectively in a cross functional team setting to share insights, co-create outputs and iterate with speed Demonstrated self-starter and ability to semi-independently run analysis to drive to answers Clear, proactive and collaborative communicator Can tactfully address issues with internal and external business partners Demonstrates poise, composure, presence, communication skills and an understanding of key data drivers to establish rapport and respect with negotiation partners Experience developing creative solutions that provide win-win outcomes in difficult or ambiguous situations Skilled in coordinating timelines and project managing across multiple simultaneous projects Prior exposure to manufacturing, sourcing, product development desired Possess a positive attitude with a bias towards action Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office Suite Intermediate to advanced Excel skills with a passion for discovering answers and insights Preferably has previous experience using reporting tools such as Alteryx and Power BI Experience and Education

Experience: Minimum of 3-5 years’ prior work experience, ideally in some of the following fields: Manufacturing, engineering, commodity trading, sourcing, analytics, forecasting, merchandising, product design, category management, consulting, project management Prior experience with sourcing software (Coupa, Jaggaer, etc) a plus Education: Bachelor’s degree or graduate degree preferred Applicable fields of study include but are not limited to: Business, economics, engineering, analytics, mathematics, data science, supply chain, purchasing, merchandising, manufacturing, product design Compensation

$86,700 - $108,500 per year Benefits

Incentive opportunities, based on role/grade level Generous 401(k) retirement savings plan with matching contributions and additional contributions Comprehensive health coverage and life insurance benefits Vacation and paid holidays Volunteer time and charitable programs Tuition assistance and professional development Employee discounts and various perks Equal Opportunity Employer

Ace Hardware Corporation is committed to a policy of promoting equal employment opportunities and prohibits discrimination on race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, national origin, age, marital status, disability, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other action covered by federal or applicable state/local laws. Disclaimer

The pay range may be higher based on education and experience. Compensation decisions depend on the facts and circumstances of each opening. This description is not intended to cover all aspects of the position, and Ace Hardware reserves the right to change duties as business needs require.

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