Purchasing Buyer

Responsible for managing global spend for designated commodity categories, identifying opportunities to reduce costs, consolidate processes, improve continuity of supply, and drive continuous improvement. The position will manage supplier contracts, track performance metrics, and support RFI/RFQ activities. The role will also generate recommendations based on Total Cost of Ownership comparisons and monitor activities associated with assigned commodity categories.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

Formulate annual business plans to achieve cost reductions and year-over-year performance improvements.

Obtain and analyze supplier quotes to determine the best value and recommend sourcing solutions based on data and facts.

Develop, communicate, and track commodity strategies using strategy templates and capability matrices.

Prepare documentation for sourcing councils, including total landed cost analysis covering duty, freight, packaging, surcharges, payment terms, and other financial factors.

Manage multiple projects, anticipate and resolve roadblocks, and support successful PPAP and product launches.

Monitor technical review progress with cross-functional teams, ensure OISRs are updated, and track program milestones.

Understand the financial and strategic impact of supplier negotiations and effectively negotiate complex supplier issues.

Prepare and review complete RFQ packages and negotiate basic contract terms in accordance with standard Terms and Conditions.

Monitor supplier performance, audit results, corrective actions, and compliance with agreements.

Conduct regular supplier performance reviews with key stakeholders and track savings projects, forecasts, and actual results.

Understand supplier surcharge mechanisms and procurement and quality supplier metrics.

Work proactively with other departments to identify opportunities to reduce inventory requirements.

Manage supply chain workflows and eliminate non-value-added activities.

Identify process deficiencies and develop comprehensive recommendations for process improvements.

Support and lead improvement activities involving DOS, Benchmarking, VA/VE, Lean, Resourcing, LPP Analysis, and Value Stream Mapping.

Promote cost reduction initiatives with key suppliers and share best practices across the organization.

Required Qualifications

Four-year degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Purchasing, or Engineering (Product or Manufacturing preferred).

3–5 years of procurement/direct buying experience.

Automotive purchasing experience is required.

Professional Supply Chain certification preferred.

Strong understanding of procurement and supplier quality metrics.

Understanding of blueprints and technical specifications.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Strong analytical, problem-solving, organizational, and negotiation skills.

Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and manage deadlines effectively.

Ability to work independently and make effective decisions with limited guidance.

Strong cross-functional collaboration and relationship-building skills.

Ability to communicate and work effectively with internal and external stakeholders at all levels.

Willingness to travel approximately 10%.

Microsoft Excel Requirements

Candidates must be proficient in Microsoft Excel and able to work independently from Day 1.

Required Excel skills include:

Basic formulas

Excel proficiency should be confirmed prior to submission, ideally through a brief Excel skills assessment.