Purchasing Manager

Our expanding automotive manufacturing firm is looking for a seasoned Purchasing Manager to oversee sourcing and direct material procurement operations. You will collaborate extensively with internal departments like Engineering, Operations, Quality, and Program Management, alongside our supplier network throughout the Americas. We need a professional with deep expertise in automotive manufacturing, commodity management, and contract negotiation who can handle complex challenges with precision and speed.

This role goes beyond simple transactions. We need a strategic leader who grasps the wider business implications of their decisions, manages escalations with both suppliers and customers, shapes our procurement strategy, and mentors the purchasing staff.

Core Duties

• Create and implement procurement plans for direct material categories.
• Oversee the entire RFQ process, including vendor selection, bid evaluation, and commercial discussions.
• Foster strong vendor partnerships to ensure high standards in quality, delivery, pricing, and consistent supply.
• Improve overall profitability by spearheading cost-saving projects and value-engineering efforts.
• Track market fluctuations, material pricing, and potential supply chain vulnerabilities.
• Facilitate the procurement requirements for new product introductions and program lifecycles.
• Conduct regular vendor performance assessments and address any operational conflicts.
• Ensure a reliable supply chain by resolving material shortages with immediate, proactive action.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Engineering, Operations, Quality, and Program Management teams.
• Ensure data integrity and accurate record-keeping within our ERP/SAP environment.
• Mentor and provide guidance to our regional purchasing personnel.
• Validate procurement priorities and strategic vendor choices to ensure alignment with company goals.

Ideal Qualifications

• Ten or more years of increasing responsibility within procurement or sourcing functions.
• Prior experience in an automotive Tier 1 or Tier 2 manufacturing setting is highly valued.
• Background in managing direct materials and commodity-based procurement.
• Proven track record in a leadership or supervisory capacity within a purchasing department.
• Expertise in contract management and high-stakes vendor negotiations.
• Proficiency in SAP systems is strongly preferred.
• Exceptional ability to represent the company to customers and resolve high-level escalations.
• A proactive mindset with a sharp focus on accuracy and operational detail.
• Ability to thrive in a rapid-paced manufacturing environment while juggling multiple critical tasks.