Supply Manager, Sourcing, Raw & Direct Materials, Manufacturing

Supply Manager, Sourcing, Raw & Direct Materials, ManufacturingDenver CO.HYBRIDCompetitive Salary [about $116K] Bonus, Full & Comprehensive Benefits, World Class ManufacturerThe Category Manager – Direct Materials is accountable for developing and executing sourcing strategies that optimize cost, quality, and supply continuity across s operations. This role leads complex, multi-facility sourcing initiatives; drives supplier performance and capability development; and partners closely with R&D, Product Management, and operations teams to deliver measurable business results. Do you have experience sourcing raw or direct materials for manufacturing plants?Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic Sourcing & Category PerformanceDevelop and execute data-driven sourcing strategies for resale product categories to improve cost structure, mitigate risk, and enhance supplier value.Build and maintain robust should-cost models to guide negotiations, evaluate pricing proposals, and support long-term cost optimization.Deliver year-over-year cost savings through structured negotiations, supplier workshops, competitive bidding, value engineering, and supply-base rationalization.Monitor and report category performance using monthly scorecards, KPIs, and executive-level updates.Project & Supplier ManagementLead multi-functional project teams—spanning R&D, Product Management, Operations, Finance, and Quality—to qualify new suppliers, onboard new products, and support product innovation initiatives.Drive supplier development programs to enhance supplier capabilities, improve quality, and ensure long-term alignment with business objectives.Manage contracts across the resale category, ensuring compliance, performance tracking, and timely renewals.Identify and implement process improvements that streamline supply chain operations and eliminate inefficiencies.Cross-Functional Collaboration & Stakeholder EngagementServe as the primary commercial interface for internal stakeholders across facilities, ensuring seamless communication, alignment, and timely issue resolution.Partner with R&D and Product Managers to evaluate alternative materials, support new product development, and enable sustainable sourcing decisions.Risk Management & Supply ContinuityEnsure uninterrupted supply of resale products to facilities by proactively identifying risks, developing contingency plans, and maintaining strong supplier relationships.Conduct root-cause analyses for supply disruptions and lead corrective-action initiatives in partnership with suppliers and internal teams.QualificationsEducation & ExperienceBachelor's Degree required.Minimum 5 years of experience in supply chain or related experience, 3 of which should be experience sourcing with a major organization.CPSM certification desirable.Technical SkillsDemonstrated experience with should-cost modeling and cost-analysis techniques.Strong contract negotiation skills, working knowledge of contract development, contract law.Working knowledge of commodity management principles and e-sourcing tools.Experience with SAP/similar ERP system; proficient: Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook.Leadership & Soft SkillsProven ability to manage supplier relationships and lead cross-functional projects to successful outcomes.Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills, including presenting to non-technical audiences.Strong analytical, strategic-thinking, and problem-solving abilities.Proactive, collaborative approach with openness to feedback, mentoring, and continuous improvement.Skills and Certifications [note: bold skills and certification are required] Experience managing $20M in spendContract experience. Sourcing direct materials for a manufacturing companyCandidate Details: 5+ to 7 years' experienceSeniority Level – Associate/Management Experience Required - NoMinimum Education - Bachelor's DegreeScreening Questions: Do you have experience sourcing raw or direct materials for manufacturing plants? Ideal Candidate: Candidate must come from another manufacturing company where they are sourcing raw or direct materials. CONTACT/SEND RESUME:Bill Marek - CEO407.541.7816bmarek@vprecruiters.comWWW.VPRECRUITERS.COM