Category Implementation Buyer - Platform Stampings

Category Implementation Buyer – Platform Stampings

We are the movers of the world and the makers of the future. We get up every day, roll up our sleeves and build a better world – together. At Ford, we’re all a part of something bigger than ourselves. Are you ready to change the way the world moves?

The Category Implementation Buyer is responsible for the strategic sourcing, business development and supply continuity that are critical to achieving the Ford+ plan of improving bottom‑line automotive operations and securing Ford Motor Company’s place in the ever‑changing automotive landscape of tomorrow. The team interfaces with internal and external stakeholders to ensure that the right supply partner is chosen to deliver the best product, on the right vehicle, at the right price with outstanding quality and on‑time performance.

This role focuses on the steel and aluminum stamped parts and welded assemblies located on the Platform (underbody) of the vehicle. High‑level interaction occurs with Product Development, Manufacturing, STA, and MP&L at all levels, requiring strong teamwork skills.

• Develop and successfully execute negotiation strategies to deliver material efficiencies (TVM) and minimize inflationary costs by understanding cost drivers and levers.
• Support Quality initiatives by holding suppliers accountable and sourcing to Q1 sites or achieving Q1 sites where targeted/aligned.
• Develop supplier strategies based on Category Manager input, enabling sourcing programs to meet targets on time while managing cost, quality and risk.
• Support CST and cross‑functional teams in managing critical supplier concerns.
• Collaborate closely with others to meet deadlines with excellence and drive delivery of required materials on time and with quality.
• Strategic Sourcing & Negotiation
  • Understand upcoming program sourcing and key milestones in support of launch.
  • Align with the Category Manager on the supplier bid‑list, considering industry trends, technologies, and strategic supplier analysis.
  • Conduct sourcing activities that deliver a quality part at the best material cost to Ford Motor Company.
  • Present effectively to executive leadership to demonstrate the rationale behind sourcing decisions.
  • Provide feedback to valued supply partners on cost position relative to market and build long‑term, productive relationships.
  • Create and lead commercial TVM negotiations and supplier QCDR meetings.
  • Lead ‘Fix/Exit/Leave’ supplier strategies as needed.
• Business Plan Development
  • Collaborate with the strategic Category Manager, Global Commodity Team, and Product Development to understand the latest supply‑base footprint, financial health ratings, technologies, and trends.
  • Work directly with Supply Chain and the Finance organization to develop a holistic year‑over‑year commodity cost position.
  • Identify pure commercial leverage versus design efficiencies and end‑to‑end supply chain improvements to set cost savings goals.
  • Develop material cost roadmaps that deliver corporate objectives and ensure long‑term viability.
  • Present effectively to executive leadership to explain the “Why” behind commercial settlements and outlooks.
• Supply Continuity and Support
  • Provide support to the Critical Supply Team and STA where part quality and shortages are prevalent.
  • Work with engineering to identify alternative technologies or sources of supply to maintain a consistent flow of product into Ford production facilities.
  • Close all commercial issues in a timely, effective, and competitive manner to protect plant build objectives.
• Other Responsibilities
  • Ad hoc travel to supply partners as required.
  • Lead process improvement initiatives, challenging existing practices regardless of scale.
  • Complete all required systems training for day‑to‑day Category Implementation operations.
  • Attend internal and external workshops with key stakeholders for continuous process improvements.
  • Hold effective working‑level meetings with supply partners for fast issue closure and relationship development.

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, Finance or a related field.
• 5+ years of purchasing experience.
• Strong knowledge of the…