Sourcing Specialist

We are looking for a Sourcing Specialist to join our team in Dayton, OH or Mequon, WI. This role focuses on procurement for Friction Systems and Thermoelectrical Insulation Systems across the Americas, managing both Indirect Material (IM) and Direct Material (DM) spend under the direction of the Global Head of Procurement CS & PL Eldim.

About the role

As a Sourcing Specialist, you will develop and implement sourcing strategies to manage complex spend and product portfolios. You will work across Friction US and other business units in the Americas, identifying, sourcing, and negotiating contracts to align with project and organizational goals. For certain Direct and Indirect categories, you will collaborate with Global Category Leaders in areas such as Professional Services, Business Travel, Logistics, IT/Telecommunications, Real Estate & Facilities, and Capex.

Responsibilities

• Manage bidding processes for direct and indirect materials and services, ensuring a fair, efficient, and optimal bidder selection.
• Negotiate and manage Service Agreements for assigned procurement categories.
• Utilize Strategic Sourcing methodology (e.g., standardization, demand reduction) to identify, communicate, and execute cost reduction opportunities while achieving inventory targets.
• Develop the supplier base and manage supply chain partner performance and relationships.
• Ensure contract compliance and participate in improving procurement policies and guidelines.
• Educate internal customers on procurement policies and guidelines.
• Align closely with Global and Regional Procurement Heads to leverage existing supply contracts.
• Communicate effectively with stakeholders to ensure site continuity and deliver results aligned with the organization’s Business Plan.
• Manage Strategic Sourcing for assigned Direct and Indirect Materials and Services.
• Locate new sources of supply and negotiate agreements to ensure quality, competitively priced goods and services, including foreign trade aspects (import/export).
• Oversee Indirect Category Management for key categories, including CapEx/MRO, Professional Services, Business Travel, and Technical Gases.
• Ensure on-time and cost-effective supply of materials and services, including MRO, Professional Services, and non-inventory items.
• Use Global, regional, and local supply agreements in collaboration with the Regional & Global IM Team.
• Develop and manage cost reduction programs through new suppliers and alternate materials, coordinating qualification processes.
• Support the NOBS (Non-Order Based Spend) process by securing multiple bids in line with Corporate policies to maximize value.
• Resolve vendor disputes to Oerlikon’s satisfaction.
• Participate in local management and working meetings with Operations, Product Line Management, Demand Planning, R&D, and Distribution to align procurement priorities.
• Utilize MRP functions to determine demands and issue delivery schedules for critical materials.
• Compile analysis and statistics for leadership, establishing reports for effective Sourcing, Cost Reductions, and Savings, and track results via KPIs.
• Drive synergies across Oerlikon business units and sites.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Supply Chain, Technical, or Financial areas (preferred). An MBA is a plus.
• Minimum of 5+ years of experience in procurement, with proficiency in sourcing, purchasing processes, tender management, and contracts.
• Preferred experience in Operations (Manufacturing Environment), Engineering, or Category Management.
• Knowledge of sourcing policies and best practices in procurement.
• Experience with SAP or other ERP systems; proficiency in MS Office Suite.
• Assertive team player with the ability to develop and sustain productive partnerships across local and regional teams.
• Intercultural adaptability and ability to understand complex needs from multiple sites, facilities, and stakeholders.
• Strong presentation and persuasion skills to articulate ideas and build cross-department collaborations.
• Excellent negotiation skills, particularly in confrontational supplier situations.
• Data-driven, strategic thinker who addresses partner and customer needs.
• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation communication skills.
• Willingness to travel as needed for projects or assignments.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical and prescription drug plan with low premiums and company-sponsored HSA contributions.
• Excellent Dental and Vision coverage.
• Employee Assistance, Financial, and Wellness programs.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with significant company match and financial planning/education options.
• Tuition reimbursement and access to internal education resources.
• Generous paid time off, including 10 observed company holidays and 2 floaters.
• 100% company-paid life insurance and disability insurance.
• Employee Referral Bonus program.

About Us

Oerlikon is a global leader in surface technologies and advanced materials, enhancing the performance, efficiency, and sustainability of products and services. We serve industries such as aerospace, automotive, energy, medical, luxury, semiconductors, and tooling. Headquartered in Pfäffikon, Switzerland, Oerlikon operates in 38 countries with approximately 9,500 employees and achieved sales of CHF 1.6 billion in 2024.