Lead Casting Buyer, Strategic Purchasing

About the role

This role is responsible for managing supplier selection for casting commodities, leading contract negotiations, overseeing the procurement process, and supporting cost reduction initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate new suppliers and collect/compare offers
• Make award decisions for casting commodities
• Lead and document contract negotiations, including framework agreements addressing quality standards, capacity planning, cost reimbursements, and logistics
• Oversee the complete external procurement process for cast components up to series production release
• Perform detailed cost and price analyses for cast parts, supporting simultaneous engineering and development efforts with suppliers
• Identify and implement cost reduction opportunities specific to casting materials and processes
• Prepare purchasing award summaries and manage documentation for suppliers involved in production and aftersales casting components
• Develop commodity strategies for castings in alignment with global and regional purchasing and logistics goals
• Lead and deliver cross-functional projects on time and within budget, including those involving engineering, quality, and manufacturing functions
• Negotiate competitive pricing, contract terms, and long-term agreements with casting suppliers
• Proactively resolve issues related to pricing, invoicing, and contractual obligations
• Provide accurate forecasts for annual material, tooling, and repair budgets related to casting commodities
• Support the implementation of standardized purchasing processes, tools, and reporting methods
• Create viable solutions and options for complex procurement challenges
• Contribute to company-wide cost savings initiatives, particularly around material and process optimization in castings
• Maintain open and professional communication across internal departments, executive leadership, and suppliers
• Uphold workplace organization and good housekeeping practices
• Keep leadership updated on key tasks, risks, and open issues
• Actively promote and uphold a compliance-focused culture, in alignment with the Rolls-Royce Integrity Code
• Support global sourcing initiatives and special projects as assigned

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, Business Management, Materials Management, or Business Finance, or related field
• Minimum 5–7 years of experience in strategic procurement, with a strong focus on casting commodities
• In-depth technical and commercial understanding of casting processes, suppliers, and industry standards
• Proven ability to negotiate complex agreements, manage supplier relationships, and drive cost improvements with a focus on cost reductions
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills
• Proficiency in ERP systems and Microsoft Office Suite
• Ability to lead projects and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams
• Ability to travel - domestic and international and work flexible hours

Preferred

• Master's degree in supply chain, Business Management, Materials Management, or Business Finance, or related field
• Proven experience working in a global manufacturing or automotive environment
• Several years of professional experience in purchasing with focus on international procurement, ideally in the casting sector
• Engineering or technical degree
• German language skills
• SAP experience

Benefits

Rolls-Royce provides a comprehensive and competitive Total Rewards package that includes base pay and a discretionary bonus plan. Eligible employees may have the opportunity to enroll in other benefits, including health, dental, vision, disability, life and accidental death & dismemberment insurance; a flexible spending account; a health savings account; a 401(k) retirement savings plan with a company match; Employee Assistance Program; Paid Time Off; certain paid holidays; paid parental and family care leave; tuition reimbursement; and a long-term incentive plan.