Procurement Sourcing Principal Specialist

About the Role

Lead Specialist assigned to high-complexity commodities and impactful areas within procurement sourcing teams. Responsible for providing expertise for assigned auto part commodity piece price, investment, and annual cost reduction—all of which significantly impact HDMA financial performance. Establish part and supplier strategies by understanding the Global and North American supply base, manufacturing processes, and critical part design elements. Utilize expertise and stakeholder input to propose the selection of the best cost, quality, development, and delivery suppliers. Provide input to key business plan themes, initiatives, and achievements for specialized areas. Maintain supplier relationships through senior-level contacts and lead cost targets and strategies to achieve NM Model cost reduction goals.

Responsibilities

• Lead, develop, and implement commodity part and supplier strategies, identifying top cost/complex issues and prioritizing areas for improvement (cost, efficiency, process).
• Manage annual desk spend ($1B–$1.5B), exclusive investment ($12–$17M), and monitor industry trends (sourcing, technology, market price) for model and supplier strategy development.
• Collaborate with design (ADC) on logical cost targets and maker layout proposals, managing multiple model (13–17) developments.
• Ensure specialized area meets KCP, business plan achievement, project requirements, and new model targets.
• Develop and lead supplier relationships, including resolving complex Q&D issues, supporting supplier financial distress cases, and executing rational PPA plans.
• Lead cost reduction strategies, targeting an annual cost down of $30–$35M based on part complexity.
• Lead special projects supporting business needs (e.g., geopolitical impacts like tariffs).
• Report to Procurement Leadership (Div/BU Leads).
• Mentor associates on problem-solving, procedures, and professional development.
• Provide expert direction and training on all aspects of roles and responsibilities for other buyers and senior buyer associates.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Purchasing, or a related field.
• 8+ years of relevant experience in Purchasing, Sales, Quality Control, or Engineering.

Skills

• Strong project management experience handling complex and detailed issues.
• Demonstrated leadership skills, gap analysis, and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficient in setting goals and achieving results.
• Advanced Excel and PowerPoint skills.
• Ability to develop and present cost reports and build consensus in cross-functional teams.
• CATIA knowledge and strong organizational skills.

Job Dimensions

• No direct reports; 2 indirect reports.
• Manage annual desk spend ($1B–$1.5B), exclusive investment ($12–$17M), and annual cost down target ($30–$35M).
• Lead and manage business plan goal achievement in specialized areas.
• Provide expertise in department-level projects and independently lead key negotiations with suppliers and in-house departments.
• Monitor and manage task completion, coordinate open item reviews, and report key issues monthly.

Working Conditions

• Domestic travel required (10%); international travel may be required based on supplier needs.
• Willingness to work overtime (5–10 hours) due to cyclical business needs, particularly during new model launches.
• Hybrid work environment (80% in-office, 20% remote), based on business need.
• Open office environment with moderate noise and activity levels.
• Regular communication and presentation of information in group settings for evaluation.

Benefits

• Competitive base salary (varies by geographic location, work experience, etc.).
• Regional bonus (when applicable).
• Manager Lease Car Program (no-cost car, maintenance, and insurance included).
• Industry-leading benefit plans (Medical, Dental, Vision, Prescription).
• Paid time off, including vacation, holidays, and shutdown.
• Company-paid short-term and long-term disability.
• 401K Plan with company match and additional contribution.
• Relocation assistance (if eligible).
• Lifestyle Account and Childcare Reimbursement Account.
• Elder Care Support.
• Tuition Assistance and Student Loan Repayment.
• Wellbeing Program.
• Community Service and Engagement Programs.
• Product Programs.

Career Growth

• Advancement opportunities and career mobility.
• Education reimbursement for continued learning.
• Training and development programs.