Senior Buyer / Head of Purchasing / Sourcing Strategist
About Innotec
Innotec, headquartered in Zeeland, Michigan, is a global, highly automated manufacturing company serving automotive, recreation, lawn & turf, and industrial markets. We deliver innovative, high-quality solutions—including advanced LED lighting—while maintaining a strong commitment to performance and sustainability. Our culture is built on ownership, collaboration, and continuous improvement, empowering employees to make an impact and grow their careers.
Summary of Company and Role / Purpose of the Role
The Senior Buyer / Head of Purchasing / Sourcing Strategist is responsible for leading sourcing strategy, supplier management, and purchasing operations across a diverse manufacturing environment, including LED lighting, plastic injection molding, and metal fabrication. This is a strategic and operational leadership role that ensures material availability, cost competitiveness, and supplier performance while building a resilient and high-performing supply base. The role directly impacts production continuity, profitability, and customer satisfaction by aligning sourcing decisions with overall business objectives.
Job Responsibilities
Develop and execute sourcing strategies across key commodities (resins, electronics, metals, components)
Identify, qualify, and develop high-performing suppliers (domestic and global)
Lead supplier negotiations, contracts, and long-term agreements
Drive cost reduction initiatives through negotiation, VA/VE, and process improvements
Monitor market trends and adjust sourcing strategies accordingly
Oversee purchasing execution, including PO placement, tracking, and supplier communication
Ensure alignment between production schedules and material supply
Resolve supply disruptions quickly to maintain production continuity
Establish and track supplier KPIs (quality, delivery, cost, responsiveness)
Lead supplier reviews, performance management, and corrective actions
Collaborate cross-functionally with Engineering, Production, Quality, and Finance
Support new product launches with sourcing strategy and supplier readiness
Lead and develop purchasing team members (if applicable) and establish standard work
Drive supply risk mitigation strategies, including dual sourcing
Participate in S&OP and planning discussions to align supply with demand
Opportunity for Growth
This role offers the opportunity to:
Influence company-wide strategy
Build and shape the supplier network
Lead continuous improvement initiatives
Grow into broader operational or executive leadership roles
Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or related field required
5–10+ years of experience in purchasing, sourcing, or supply chain within a manufacturing environment
Experience supporting industries such as automotive, electronics, plastics, or metal fabrication preferred
Proven experience in supplier negotiations, contract management, and cost reduction initiatives
Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems and purchasing processes
Knowledge of supply chain best practices, sourcing strategies, and market analysis
Experience with new product launch support and supplier development
APICS / CPSM or similar certification
Experience working with global suppliers
Must be authorized to work in the United States without current or future visa sponsorship
Skills & Competencies
Strategic thinking with strong execution and follow-through
Strong negotiation and supplier management skills
Data-driven decision-making and analytical capability
Ability to balance cost, quality, and delivery priorities
Effective cross-functional collaboration and communication
Leadership skills with ability to develop teams and influence without authority
Problem-solving mindset with focus on risk mitigation and continuity
High level of ownership, accountability, and integrity
Continuous improvement mindset with focus on long-term impact