Strategic Sourcing Manager - Energy Storage Solutions

Strategic Sourcing Manager - Energy Storage Solutions

Apply for the Strategic Sourcing Manager - Energy Storage Solutions role at Toyota Material Handling
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We are seeking a passionate and forward‑thinking Strategic Sourcing Manager - Energy Storage Solutions to help drive next‑generation innovation in our energy products across Toyota Material Handling North America (TMHNA) brands. In this role, you will be instrumental in supporting new product development (NPD) initiatives by developing and managing complex supplier partnerships and securing specialized global sources for advanced energy technologies, including battery and fuel cell applications.

Success in this position requires strategic agility, technical fluency, and a global awareness of emerging energy supply chain ecosystems. The ideal candidate thrives at the intersection of technical curiosity and commercial acumen, bringing a high level of creativity and a bold, out‑of‑the‑box approach to problem‑solving. If you excel in fast‑paced environments that challenge conventional thinking and reward proactive, strategic decision‑making, you’ll feel right at home here.

• Serve as the Strategic Sourcing Lead for energy storage initiatives across TMHNA brands, acting as the primary liaison between the Rochester Development Center (RDC) and Corporate Procurement.
• Provide leadership to Supplier Project Managers overseeing specific supplier portfolios and/or strategic projects, ensuring alignment with company objectives, timelines, and technical requirements.
• Lead sourcing for new product development, from prototype through launch, with a focus on lithium‑ion batteries and fuel cells.
• Develop and execute global sourcing strategies that align with product roadmaps, cost objectives, and technology readiness.
• Collaborate with technical teams to identify and secure suppliers for critical, emerging technologies.
• Drive execution of co‑developed products with external partners, ensuring successful delivery and alignment with business goals.
• Leverage market intelligence and benchmarking to optimize cost, quality, and supply chain resilience.
• Foster partnerships with startups and established tech firms, facilitating innovation and managing IP‑sensitive agreements.
• Support global energy strategy planning while ensuring sourcing practices align with compliance and standard work requirements.
• Coordinate strategic projects with partner organizations to accelerate innovation and business outcomes.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Supply Chain, Procurement, Engineering, Physical Science, or a related technical discipline – or equivalent practical experience.
• 10+ years of experience in strategic global sourcing, technical purchasing, and supply chain management, with a strong focus on energy solutions such as lithium‑ion batteries and fuel cells; includes a track record in technical program management and new product development.
• Experience leading supplier project management teams or equivalent functions, with a proven track record in site leadership, including facility launches, organizational integration, transition management, or the establishment of new manufacturing and engineering operations.
• Demonstrated ability to understand emerging technologies, assess market implications, and navigate competitive landscapes.
• Proven success in commercializing emerging technologies in both startup and established environments.
• Experience with technology transfer and building strategic supplier partnerships.
• Strong expertise in contract negotiation, supplier relationship management, and cross‑functional site leadership.

• Advanced Degree in Supply Chain, Procurement, or a technical discipline (e.g., Engineering or Physical Science).
• Background in New Product Development, with the ability to navigate cross‑functional complexities.
• Excellent planning, communication, and project management skills.
• Experience working with foreign suppliers or fluency in Japanese, Chinese, or Spanish.
• Specific experience with battery design, assembly, or sourcing of components (cells, battery modules, electrical contractors, electrical connectors, wiring…