Strategic Buyer​/Strategic Sourcing

Who We Are

At The Urban Electric Co., we make it our mission to recruit and retain highly skilled and passionate individuals. Because we have a genuine respect for the talents and story of every member of our team, our culture attracts a wide variety of personalities and backgrounds to compose an eclectic and fun atmosphere. Each of our company’s products is bench‑made and hand‑finished at our 180,000 sq.

ft. headquarters in North Charleston, which houses the talented engineers, sales and marketing professionals, designers, and craftsmen who make up our team. We pride ourselves on manufacturing processes that secure the growth and sustainability of artisanal craft for the future by using modern techniques that enhance and refine the hand‑build approach as opposed to replacing it.

As a Strategic Sourcing Buyer, you are a problem solver, looking for solutions that are not just a quick‑fix. The Strategic Sourcing Buyer will lead supplier strategy, support new product development, and expand our global supplier network.

This role works closely with Engineering, Product Development, and Operations to identify the right suppliers, improve supply chain resilience, and support the continued growth of the company. The position requires strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build productive partnerships that support quality, innovation, and long‑term supply stability.

In any given day, you might find yourself doing these job‑related tasks:

• Develop and execute sourcing strategies for key product categories and materials
• Identify, evaluate, and onboard new domestic and international suppliers
• Support new product development by selecting and qualifying suppliers early in the design process
• Strengthen supplier relationships and drive continuous improvement in cost, quality, and lead time
• Monitor market conditions and supply risks affecting key commodities
• Partner with Engineering and New Product Development teams to ensure manufacturable and scalable supply solutions
• Lead supplier negotiations and long‑term supplier agreements
• Drive cost improvement initiatives while protecting product quality and design intent
• Evaluate supplier performance and implement improvement plans where needed
• Support long‑range supply planning for key materials with extended lead times
• Carry out periodic reviews of suppliers to ensure that they satisfy the ongoing requirements of UECo.
• Understand and participate in the import process for specific goods.
• Contact suppliers to report rejected or damaged products, initiate return or credit process.
• Additional responsibilities as assigned
• Example sourcing categories may include glass, shades, metal components, decorative finishes, castings, and specialty fabricated parts.

• Strong interpersonal and relationship‑building skills with the ability to develop trust with suppliers and internal teams.
• 5+ years of sourcing, procurement, or supply chain experience in manufacturing
• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, or related field preferred
• Experience working with domestic and international suppliers
• Strong supplier negotiation and relationship management skills
• Experience supporting new product introduction or product development initiatives
• Familiarity with ERP systems and bill of materials structures
• Ability to manage multiple projects and supplier relationships simultaneously

• Medical & dental insurance with employer contributions
• 401(k) savings plan with employer match
• Paid parental leave for new moms and dads
• Generous paid time off and holidays
• A company‑wide health & wellness initiative
• An on‑site barista with complimentary drinks and snacks
• Robust training program with room for growth and merit based advancement