Strategic Sourcing Manager

Job Summary

The Strategic Sourcing Manager supports Interstate Batteries' success by developing, executing, and optimizing global sourcing strategies across international supplier networks. This role serves as the primary interface with global suppliers and is critical in driving international category strategy, global sourcing execution, cross-border supplier relationship management, and commercial negotiations.

Purpose of Job

Under limited supervision, the Strategic Sourcing Manager supports Interstate Batteries’ success by developing, executing, and optimizing global sourcing strategies across international supplier networks. This role serves as the primary interface with global suppliers and is critical in driving international category strategy, global sourcing execution, cross-border supplier relationship management, and commercial negotiations.

Job Components

• Global Category Management:

  • Own and manage global spend across assigned international categories.
  • Develop comprehensive global category strategies that reflect geopolitical factors, trade regulations, currency impacts, and global market conditions.
  • Establish strong collaborative relationships with internal stakeholders to ensure aligned and informed global sourcing decisions.
  • Provide strategic recommendations to Supply Chain Leadership regarding international category strategies, supplier shifts, and long-term global supply positioning.

• Global Supplier Relationship Management:

  • Serve as the primary point of contact for managing international supplier relationships across assigned categories.
  • Expand influence with global suppliers and key internal stakeholders to drive innovation, sustainability, and competitive advantage.
  • Identify and act on opportunities through data analysis, global market intelligence, supplier partnerships, and regional insights.
  • Resolve international contractual obligations, cost and price analyses, and compliance requirements related to global trade.
  • Maintain complete supplier documentation including Statements of Work (SOWs), certifications, export documentation, compliance forms, and monthly pricing.
  • Develop and maintain supplier “playbooks” that outline global product portfolios, capabilities, and market positioning.

• International Sourcing & Procurement:

  • Partner with Procurement Operations to execute RFIs, RFPs, and RFQs for global suppliers, ensuring alignment with international compliance, trade regulations, and quality requirements.
  • Led supplier evaluation, selection, negotiation, and contract development for international supply agreements.
  • Leverage global sourcing metrics and dashboards to monitor supplier performance, cost targets, risk indicators, and financial deliverables.
  • Drive measurable improvements in cost, quality, and supply assurance using global sourcing best practices.
  • Collaborate with Planning to integrate global demand forecasts and assess international supply risks.
  • Partner with Interstate Batteries Recycling (IBR) to understand global value drivers, lead programs, and cross-border material flows.
  • Provide root-cause analysis, variance explanations, and strategic recommendations tied to global market fluctuations and international forecasting.
  • Collaborate with leadership on international business initiatives, supplier transitions, and strategic projects.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, International Business, or related discipline required; MBA preferred.
• 4+ years of professional procurement experience, including at least 2 years in international sourcing or global supplier management.
• Strong influencing skills and ability to operate as a leader with internal teams and global business partners.
• Experience with commodities trading, foreign negotiations, or managing large-scale international partnerships is preferred.
• Deep understanding of global category management, spend analysis, RFx processes, and commercial negotiations.
• CPSM certification a plus.
• Strong business acumen with the ability to anticipate global impacts of decisions related to currency, tariffs, logistics, and geopolitical disruptions.
• Self-starter with urgency to drive results valuable to a global business.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills; must effectively navigate sensitive topics across cultures and regions.
• Strong analytical approach with demonstrated problem-solving skills and initiative.
• Highest level of collaboration with a service-oriented mindset across international and domestic teams.
• Proficient in MS Office Suite; SAP or other ERP experience preferred.
• Bilingual preferred but not required (Korean/Spanish).
• Global travel required up to 10–20% depending on business needs.