Strategic Buyer

The Strategic Sourcing Manager is responsible for developing and executing sourcing strategies for castings, forgings, machined and fabricated components, and other metal-based commodities. This role leads supplier selection, contract negotiations, cost reduction initiatives, and supply base optimization while ensuring quality, delivery, and operational requirements are met. Working cross-functionally with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, Operations, Procurement, and Category Management teams, this position plays a key role in establishing a competitive, resilient, and scalable supply chain that supports business growth and operational excellence.

What You Will Do

• Develop and execute sourcing strategies for designated commodities and supplier categories.
• Identify, evaluate, and qualify new suppliers to support growth objectives, improve competitiveness, and strengthen supply chain resilience.
• Lead RFQ and RFP activities, supplier evaluations, and sourcing decisions.
• Negotiate pricing, contracts, and commercial terms to achieve the best total cost of ownership while maintaining quality and delivery expectations.
• Analyze supplier quotations, cost structures, and manufacturing processes to identify and implement cost-saving opportunities.
• Execute annual cost reduction initiatives and drive continuous improvement efforts across the supply base.
• Conduct market research, supplier benchmarking, and industry analysis to support sourcing strategies.
• Lead supplier rationalization and consolidation initiatives where appropriate.
• Support supplier development activities focused on performance improvement and strategic partnership growth.
• Partner with Engineering and Quality teams during product transfers, new product introductions, and supplier qualification activities.
• Support make-versus-buy analyses and provide sourcing recommendations to key stakeholders.
• Develop dual-source and contingency plans to minimize supply chain risk.
• Collaborate with Category Management and cross-functional teams on strategic business initiatives.
• Influence stakeholders and gain alignment on supplier selections, sourcing strategies, and procurement recommendations.
• Assist in the implementation of regional and global sourcing strategies that leverage opportunities across North America and international operations.
• Maintain compliance with company policies, procedures, safety requirements, and ethical business practices.

Your Experience Should Be

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field.
• 3 to 7+ years of experience in sourcing, procurement, commodity management, or supply chain management.
• Experience sourcing castings, forgings, machined parts, fabricated components, or engineered mechanical components.
• Strong analytical, financial, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience negotiating contracts and managing supplier relationships.
• Proficiency with ERP systems and Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel.
• Ability to work effectively across multiple functions and business units.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience within an industrial manufacturing environment.
• Knowledge of global sourcing strategies and international supply chains.
• Professional certifications such as CPSM, CPM, APICS/ASCM, or equivalent.
• Technical knowledge of manufacturing processes including:
  • Permanent mold castings
  • Sand castings
  • Die castings
  • Closed-die forgings
  • Open-die forgings
  • CNC machining
  • Welding
  • Surface finishing and coatings

Your Physical Work Environment Will Require

• Primarily office-based work with regular interaction across manufacturing and operational environments.
• Ability to sit, stand, walk, and use a computer for extended periods of time.
• Occasional visits to manufacturing facilities and supplier locations.
• Domestic and international travel as required to support supplier development, sourcing initiatives, and business operations.
• Use of required personal protective equipment (PPE) when visiting manufacturing or supplier facilities.

Our Benefits Package Includes

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• 401(k) with company match
• Company-paid life and disability insurance
• Paid time off and company holidays
• Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities
• Employee assistance program
• Wellness programs and additional voluntary benefits