Associate Consultant GPO CareSourcing Job Locations US-IL-Chicago Job ID 2018-2789 # of Openings 1 Category Healthcare Consulting Overview The Associate Consultant participates on project teams to help develop strategic contracting opportunities to improve the competitive position of the nationwide Blue System and assists in the economic and financial analysis of these opportunities. Through market research, data collection and analysis, interviews, application of expertise, literature reviews and team interaction the Associate Consultant is responsible for assisting in structuring supplier relationships which provide strategic and tactical solutions for Blue Plans and the Blue System nationwide. Specific emphasis will be placed on assisting the category manager with supplier portfolio analysis and expansion. This role is dedicated to the Health Engagement and Clinical Lab categories, with supportive work on other related CareSourcing activities that are clinically focused. Responsibilities Responsibilities include but are not limited to: Participate on project teams and provide analytical support to help GPO/SBS meet needs of BCBS Plan and internal business clients. Responsible for supporting the GPO through various activities such as: data collection and analysis, interviews, literature reviews, supplier relations and team interaction. Able to co-manage a smaller RFP with a more senior employee. Able to support the categories of the practice area that within which they reside. Prepares reports, written materials, spreadsheets, promotional materials and presentations to support the work within categories assigned. Engage BCBS Plans; internal business partners and suppliers through various communication channels, meetings, presentations, webinars, conference calls and individual meetings. Conducts market research to validate category performance, identifies trends/new opportunities and is a subject matter expert within the category. Ability to interact with stakeholder staff and external suppliers to lead in collecting information and conducting interviews/surveys. Able to compile a complete industry analysis for a category. Able to present the analysis in an approved format in a clear and concise manner. Able to present findings to management and workgroups. Qualifications Required Basic Qualifications: A minimum of 1 to 3 years related business experience Bachelors degree in related discipline Strong analytical skills Demonstrated ability to work independently Proficiency in Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) Familiarity with health financing industry and concepts Preferred Basic Qualifications: 2 to 5 years of business experience in healthcare field related Strategic Sourcing Bachelors degree in Supply Chain, General Business or a Technology field Understanding of medical categories and prior work experience with healthcare and/or hospital operations Equal Opportunity Employer Blue Cross Blue Shield Association is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, gender identity, disability, veteran status, genetic information or any other legally protected characteristics