Strategic Sourcing Manager

Tools Inc. OverviewTools Inc. is an established tool and die, and metal stamping company in Sussex, WI founded in 1957. We partner with our customers providing them with innovative and world-class solutions in single-hit, progressive, transfer and deep draw dies, precision sheet metal stampings, and laser cutting. We pride ourselves on our quality, timeliness and service.Position OverviewThe Strategic Sourcing Manager is a unique opportunity to shape the sourcing and supplier infrastructure that will fuel our company’s growth. The ideal candidate is a forward-thinking, relationship-driven leader, who thrives on building relationships, building systems, and delivering results that drive a competitive advantage. This position will develop and implement sourcing strategies, supplier management programs, and process improvements that strengthen our supply base and operational capabilities across both the Tooling and Production divisions.This individual will design and document sourcing procedures, lead supplier engagement and auditing initiatives, and support seamless transitions from design through tooling and into full production. The role is critical in building a robust sourcing infrastructure that enables scalability, cost efficiency, and quality assurance for future growth.Essential Job FunctionsDevelop and implement comprehensive purchasing and sourcing strategies aligned with company goals.Establish best practices for supplier relationship management, including negotiation of contracts, pricing, lead times, capacity, and performance expectations.Create and execute long-term supplier development and engagement plans, including regular supplier audits.Partner with the Quality Manager to implement a robust supplier quality management program.Review and improve pricing and quoting processes to ensure industry-leading practices are maintained.Design or optimize supply chains (including identification and onboarding of new suppliers) that support evolving business strategies, cost-reduction goals, and contingency planning.Collaborate with our Master Scheduler to develop inventory management models that align with the master production schedule, inventory targets, and customer service levels.Enhance systems to accurately track on-time delivery and monitor demand forecasts, assessing their impact on supply chain activities.Refine supplier management programs and establish performance metrics for selection, ongoing evaluation, and accountability.Implement corrective and continuous improvement plans with underperforming suppliers.Support quality system initiatives by developing and maintaining purchasing procedures compliant standards such as ISO:9001.Define and track key performance indicators (KPIs) for supply chain measurement and continuous improvement.Contribute to company budgeting processes, including purchasing department budgets and cost-saving initiatives.Develop and maintain an annual supplier audit and visit schedule, as applicable.Evaluate and improve Tooling Division purchasing strategies and procedures.Lead the development of workflow improvements from design through tooling, production, and outsourcing, including procedure documentation, and maintenance.Conduct regular audits of sourcing and purchasing procedures, identifying gaps, and collaborate with stakeholders to strengthen work instructions and support scalable growth.QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, Operations Management, or related experience.Minimum of 7 years of purchasing and sourcing experience within a manufacturing environment.Proficiency with ERP systems and demonstrated supply chain management experience.Strong negotiation skills with ability to drive favorable outcomes.Advanced data analytics and cost/pricing analysis skills.Excellent organizational and time management abilities, with a focus on meeting production deadlines.Proven analytical thinking, problem-solving, and process improvement capabilities.Demonstrated success in collaborating with suppliers and customers to build efficient, cost-effective supply chain functions.Experience driving improvements in a metrics-driven environment.Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt to changing business needs.Leadership experience with strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel required.Physical DemandsAbility to work in both office and manufacturing environments. Must be able to navigate industrial areas safely, with occasional lifting or moving of materials (up to 25 lbs) may be required. Ability to use standard office equipment and sit for extended periods during different tasks is also required.Please NoteWe are not able to offer relocation assistance or visa sponsorship for this position. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without current or future sponsorship.Why Join UsThis strategic position offers a unique opportunity to shape the sourcing and supplier infrastructure that will fuel our company’s growth.We believe that success starts with our people, and we foster an environment where every team member is valued, supported, and encouraged to bring their best ideas forward.Enjoy competitive pay and benefits, including health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans.Grow with a stable and expanding company that values your contributions and offers long-term career development opportunities.Benefit OverviewTools Inc. offers great benefits, competitive pay, and a state of the art, climate-controlled facility with an on-site fitness center, a spacious training center, and kitchen/employee lounge.Please join us in our commitment to living the Tools Inc. company values:Integrity - The foundation on which we build relationships and trustExcellence - Our customers expect itCollaboration - We succeed in numbers, relying on each otherInnovation - Our creativity ensures our future successGratitude - We appreciate those around us