Commodity Buyer

Waupaca Foundry, Inc. is North America’s leading supplier of iron castings and has a history of innovation with a legacy of product quality. We employ approximately 4,400 people company-wide and are committed to relentless improvement, forward-thinking sustainability initiatives, and providing a reliable experience to the millions who use our castings every day. Our goal is to employ individuals who take pride in their work within a culture of continual innovation.

About the role

Responsible for leading the strategic sourcing and procurement of materials and services to meet company production needs while optimizing cost, quality, and supplier performance. This role involves managing supplier relationships, negotiating high-value contracts, and identifying advanced technologies, alternatives, and cost-savings opportunities. The Commodity Buyer will prepare data for both internal and external reviews, assess market trends, mitigate supply chain risk, and ensure procurement activities comply with regulatory and sustainability standards. This role interfaces cross-functionally.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement long-term procurement strategies for key materials such as metals, alloys, and other foundry-related supplies and services to support production and organizational requirements.
• Develop and implement a clear, concise, and transparent sourcing process, alternative bid mechanisms, and prepare Board of Directors recommendations.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, negotiate contracts, develop long-term strategies, and ensure suppliers meet quality, delivery, and cost targets.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities through better supplier terms, bulk purchasing, alternative materials, and improved procurement processes. Develop and execute forecasts and budgets that support corporate objectives.
• Work closely with inventory control teams and plant controllers to align procurement activities with inventory needs, avoiding overstock or shortages. Develop min/max strategies and lead-time efficiencies. Review past dues to ensure on-time delivery. Generate purchase orders to replenish stock.
• Ensure that all purchased materials meet the required technical specifications and quality standards. Coordinate with quality, program management, and engineering teams to resolve any material-related issues or concerns. Develop, communicate, provide feedback, and rehabilitate or replace underperforming vendors as necessary.
• Assess and mitigate risk in the supply chain, including market volatility, supplier reliability, geopolitical influence, environmental impacts, and potential disruptions. Develop contingency plans and maintain alternative supplier options.
• Conduct ongoing analysis of market trends, material price fluctuations, technology advancements, and supply chain developments to adjust procurement strategies as needed.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university in Business, Engineering, Supply Chain Management, or related field, or equivalent combination of experience and education.
• 5+ years of procurement/sourcing experience, including direct commodity or category management.
• Strong negotiation, contract management, and supplier relationship skills.
• Experience analyzing market/commodity price trends and total cost of ownership.
• Experience with index-based or hedged commodity pricing structures.

Skills

• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications including Excel and Outlook.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Excellent analytical skills for problem-solving.
• Detail-oriented.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability and willingness to take on projects and participate in department cross-training.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Short- and long-term disability.
• Life insurance.
• 401(k) with employer match.
• Employer-funded retirement plan.
• Paid vacations and holidays.
• Wellness program.
• Fitness membership.
• Employee assistance program (EAP).
• Employer-supported career development, including tuition reimbursement.