Senior Category Buyer

Are you ready for what's next?

Come explore opportunities within Brunswick, a global marine leader committed to challenging conventions and innovating next-generation technologies that transform experiences on the water and beyond. Brunswick believes "Next Never Rests," and we offer a variety of exciting careers and growth opportunities within united teams defining the future of marine recreation.

Location:

Fond du Lac, WI

Workplace Category:
Hybrid

Travel Required:

Occasional; 20-25%

Direct Reports:
No

Pay Range: $86,500 - $126,800

Visa Sponsorship:
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States. This position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship now or in the future.

Relocation:
Yes

Innovation is the heart of Brunswick. See how your contributions will help transform vision into reality:

Position Overview:

The Senior Category Buyer is a key contributor in developing and executing strategic sourcing initiatives for their portfolio. This role actively collaborates with suppliers and internal stakeholders throughout the product lifecycle, from initial sourcing and development through serial production and service support. Activities strive to optimize product launch effectiveness, supplier cost and operational performance, innovation, and risk management in a dynamic global landscape

At Brunswick, we have passion for our work and a distinct ability to deliver.

Key Responsibilities:

* Actively contribute to the development and execution of sourcing strategies aligned with category goals and broader business objectives in partnership with Engineering, Quality, Operations, Service, and Finance

* Build strategic, long-term supplier partnerships focused on transparency, performance, and continuous improvement

* Visit suppliers to assess capability, deepen category knowledge, and monitor market trends

* Lead requests for quotation, analyze for competitiveness, negotiate terms, and make sourcing recommendations that balance cross-functional and strategic needs

* Obtain supplier component feasibility studies and support APQP development processes

* Continuously identify cost optimization and value engineering opportunities through "should cost" modeling and industry benchmarking

* Process purchase requisitions and purchase orders for components and tooling

* Ensure supplier capacity is aligned with business needs and delivery performance meets program and manufacturing schedules, drive resolution to chronic performance issues

* Provide effective analysis, forecasting, and implementation of cost changes

* Manage component tooling lifecycle for accurate budgeting of costs and timely maintenance or replacement

* Support commercial recovery of excess costs resulting from supplier performance issues

* Lead supplier business reviews to align expectations, develop new opportunities, and drive continuous improvement

* Manage and execute projects successfully with strong planning, attention to detail, risk management, and communication

* Manage component change requests for effective disposition and execution

* Monitor supply base risks, proactively plan and execute mitigations

Diversity of thought and experiences is fundamental when imagining the unimaginable. Certain skillsets/experiences are necessary; however, others can be developed along the way.

Required Qualifications:

* BS/BA in Engineering (preferred), Operations Management, Supply Chain, or a related field

* Minimum of 7+ years of experience in sourcing, procurement, or supplier management roles

* Proven success in project management and cross-functional team leadership

* Excellent negotiating and cost management skills; adept at managing conflict and handling difficult situations

* Strong data analysis abilities and software skills, including Microsoft Excel and Power BI; proficient with Word, PowerPoint, and Project

* Proficient with engineering prints and specifications, APQP, and PPAP processes

* Excellent time management and organization skills; able to manage multiple ongoing projects and adapt to changing business needs

* Positive attitude, ethics, and international values to promote a healthy, diverse, high-performance culture

* Possess strong…