National Manager, Procurement

Select how often (in days) to receive an alert:

At Kia, we’re creating award-winning products and redefining what value means in the automotive industry. It takes a special group of individuals to do what we do, and we do it together. Our culture is fast‑paced, collaborative, and innovative. Our people thrive on thinking differently and challenging the status quo. We are creating something special here, a culture of learning and opportunity, where you can help Kia achieve big things and most importantly, feel passionate and connected to your work every day.

Kia provides team members with competitive benefits including premium paid medical, dental and vision coverage for you and your dependents, 401(k) plan matching of 100% up to 6% of the salary deferral, and paid time off. Kia also offers company lease and purchase programs, company‑wide holiday shutdown, paid volunteer hours, and premium lifestyle amenities at our corporate campus in Irvine, California.

Status

Exempt

This role directs the strategic acquisition of goods and services for Kia America, Inc (“KUS”). The National Manager of Procurement is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the purchasing process, including sourcing and program analysis. Responsibilities include providing guidance and direction to Procurement team members and internal stakeholders regarding purchasing policies and procedures, as well as monitoring and enforcing adherence to the Purchasing Policy.

Additionally, this position acts as the primary point of contact for all procurement‑related activities.

1st Priority – 30%

• Lead and develop a high‑performing Procurement Agents team, emphasizing collaboration and operational excellence using quantitative and qualitative methods.
• Oversee Procurement operations and programs, ensuring timely, on‑budget, and quality delivery.

2nd Priority – 30%

• Oversee designated programs and manage vendor relationships.
• Conduct supplier selection, performs cost and price analysis of vendor proposals and quotations, and facilitates contract negotiations.

3rd Priority – 20%

• Develop strong relationships with internal business partners to engage them on a timely basis as appropriate to ensure agreements are consistent with company objectives and procedures.
• Maintain relationships with suppliers while continually seeking additional vendors.

4th Priority – 10%

• Develop and execute strategies to maximize spending by identifying and qualifying savings potential for specific projects.

5th Priority – 10%

• Administration of proper procurement documentation. Review and approve reconciliations of project costs to ensure all costs are in line with planned budgets. Oversee the KPI process upon program completion.

Personally Performed Duties

• Provide management and leadership of vendor sourcing process.
  • Development and issuance of RFI/RFPs.
  • Evaluate vendor proposal pricing, terms, and conditions.
  • Provide appropriate recommendations.
  • Execute negotiations of pricing, terms, and conditions to maximize value and mitigate risk to KUS.
  • Manages preventive and expediting measures to ensure timely deliveries, addresses delays promptly.
• Working with internal business partners (operational department, Legal, Finance) to ensure Procurement process is consistent with company business objectives and procedures. Lead and provide guidance to various business units throughout the procurement process as necessary. Uphold KUS’s Purchasing Policy and Procedure with integrity and consistency.
  • Tracking and reporting project schedule and cost performance.
  • Some domestic and international travel may be required.
  • Provide guidance and assistance to Procurement team, as necessary.
  • Conduct major vendor financial/operational audits as required.

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, finance, accounting, or related discipline required.
• MBA preferred

Related Experience & Requirements

• 7-9 years of experience in indirect procurement or related experience.
• 5 years of experience managing a team of Procurement professionals
• Ability to negotiate complex contract terms and manage vendor relationships.
• Proven success in…