Division Chemical Sourcing Manager

Position Summary

The Division Chemical Sourcing Manager, based in Indianapolis, IN, is responsible for leading the strategy and daily execution of chemical and related material procurement for the Division. This role manages the sourcing of raw materials, parts, equipment, and operating supplies required to support production of the Division’s products. The manager is accountable for implementing and sustaining Lean enterprise principles across all sourcing and procurement activities. Reporting directly to the Division Supply Chain Manager, this position collaborates closely with all levels of Division leadership, including Operations, Engineering, Quality, Marketing, and Finance. The role includes formal people-leadership responsibilities and has direct reports.

Responsibilities

• Plans and directs the activities of the Division's purchases of chemical raw materials, supplies, equipment, or services.
• Identifies chemical raw material requirements from production specifications, operational schedules, and engineering quality requirements.
• Determines the most cost-efficient and reliable materials needed for the manufacturing process.
• Establishes preferred supplier selection criteria based on supplier evaluations of price, quality, delivery, certifications, and compliance with governmental procurement regulations.
• Promotes and uses strategic suppliers.
• Negotiates with suppliers in response to general performance, material requirements, or cost issues.
• Establishes procedures to leverage the company's position.
• Ensures purchasing strategy reflects the consistent utilization of local suppliers vs. Group strategic suppliers.
• Works with suppliers to develop and manage continuous improvement programs, addressing quality, delivery, service as well as price.
• Develops standard/automated re-order procedures.
• Develops and benchmarks best practices among the Divisions suppliers and maintain accurate measurements and records for evaluation of suppliers.
• Ensures purchases and capital expenditures are consistent with Division strategies and within department budgets.
• Responsible for integrating the Division with electronic interfacing throughout the purchasing function.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 6-8 years purchasing/managerial experience.
• Bachelor’s degree in business, chemical engineering, supply chain management or other related discipline.
• Possess strong analytical and technical skills required to understand chemical business practices and recommend proper automation opportunities.
• Must have functional understanding of cost accounting and adopt to practical application.
• Must have advanced computer skills and be able to understand electronic processing.
• Must have strong negotiating skills and contract knowledge.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills for effective interface with all internal and external contacts.
• Must be an innovator and embrace lean enterprises principles and practices.
• Chemical experience preferred.
• Experience within the Automotive market also preferred.
• Master’s degree (MS or MBA) preferred.