Supply Chain Manager

American Rheinmetall is a leader in the design, development, and production of advanced tracked and wheeled vehicles, vehicle systems, and critical components that support U.S. military modernization. Our expertise spans electronic and mechanical systems, fabricated structures, armored products, rubber solutions, and track systems, delivering reliable innovation to both defense and commercial markets. As part of the global Rheinmetall family, we combine proven heritage with forward-looking technology to provide solutions that defend and feed the world.

About the role

This strategic leadership position focuses on the successful delivery of the critical Next Generation Combat Vehicle/Optionally Manned Fighting Vehicle (NGCV/OMFV) program. The role is responsible for the identification and management of suppliers via relevant policy and procedure implementation, market analysis, and supplier relationship management. It ensures close alignment with relevant stakeholders and the Senior VP Procurement in the parent companies.

Responsibilities

• Supplier Qualification and Certification
  • Identify and evaluate suppliers to assess their capacity to deliver parts and materials on time and according to specifications.
  • Evaluate and document supplier QA systems to ensure they meet specifications.
  • Ensure collection of all documentation required for supplier certification.
  • Oversee completion of Purchased Part Approval Process (PPAP) and First Article Inspection (FAI) for qualified components or materials.
• Supplier Performance and Management
  • Develop and monitor measures of supplier performance.
  • Identify and follow up to address supplier issues in a timely manner, ensuring timely delivery of quality components or materials.
  • Maintain strong supplier relationships for effective problem resolution and early identification of issues that may impact delivery dates.
  • Coordinate the resolution and reporting of quality issues with the Quality Manager.
• Procurement and Forecasting
  • Partner with the Production Planner/Buyer to purchase components and materials in accordance with development/prototype and production needs.
  • Schedule milestones for components or materials for new business and identify lead time and long lead time risks.
  • Communicate with suppliers to ensure clarity of expectations regarding production timing, changes to forecasts, and supplier issues in meeting contract commitments.
  • Develop risk management and contingency plans to ensure that American Rheinmetall has components and materials for timely production.
  • Work closely with engineering to develop Bill of Materials and interpret technical requirements to issue vendor RFQs and evaluate proposals for technical and commercial merit.
  • Communicate regulatory flow downs to vendors and follow up to confirm vendor compliance as needed.
• Other duties as assigned by supervisor.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Yes, within Supply Chain.

Requirements

• Knowledge of and ability to use ERP systems for purchasing and supply chain management.
• Solid understanding of manufacturing/industrial systems/processes.
• Working knowledge of Solidworks or other CAD software.
• Familiarity with PDM platforms such as Teamcenter and proper configuration control protocols.
• High-level communication and influencing skills, with the ability to lead discussions and negotiate complex commercial outcomes with a strong executive presence.
• Strong project management and organizational skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to work effectively in a small, high-performing team that takes its responsibility for providing high-quality parts to the U.S. military seriously.
• Knowledge of the U.S. DoD process and procedures for vehicle development and procurement.
• Knowledge of mechanical and electrical engineering and vehicle principles.
• Knowledge of Military Standards and regulations.
• Knowledge in Systems Engineering and related standards/processes.
• Ability to maintain composure in dealing with executives, customers, and staff, occasionally under conditions of urgency and in pressure situations.
• Exposure or requirement to handle sensitive information.
• Ability to communicate via telephone, videoconference, and face-to-face.
• Practical ‘hands-on’ attitude with the ability to operate independently.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to work effectively with the team, suppliers, customers, and corporate parent staff.
• Strong negotiation skills.
• Ability to see, speak, hear, and write to communicate with internal and external stakeholders.

Qualifications

• BSc in Business Administration, Economics, Vehicle Technology, Management, or Mechanical Engineering.
• MSc in Mechanical Engineering, Vehicle Technology, Management, Systems Engineering, Business Administration, or Economics.
• Must undergo and meet company standards for background check, employment verification, reference checks, physical, and controlled substance testing.

Preferred Qualifications

• 5 years’ experience in manufacturing with responsibility for supplier qualification and management or as the supplier representative working with customers.
• 10 years’ experience with engineering and supply chain management in a highly-regulated industry.
• Experience in commercial project delivery within a highly regulated environment.
• Experience working in a multi-national, multi-organizational, and corporate environment.
• Experience with capture, bid contract negotiations, and delivery planning.
• Experience with Navision.
• Experience in a small to midsize company or small unit within a large company.
• Familiarity with the US Army TACOM/TARDEC is desirable.
• Currently holds or has the ability to obtain US Defense clearance is desirable.
• Ability to speak German is desirable.

Working Conditions and Physical Demands

• Performing the majority of work in an office environment with occasional exposure to production facility hazards requiring PPE such as safety toe shoes, safety glasses, etc.
• Must be able to move about the facility to access materials and equipment.
• Occasional international and domestic travel required (25%).
• Rarely attend conferences, exhibitions, demonstrations, and trade shows.
• Ability to occasionally lift/move up to 25 pounds.