Senior Buyer / Head of Purchasing / Sourcing Strategist

DescriptionPosition SummaryThe Senior Buyer / Head of Purchasing / Sourcing Strategist is responsible for leading the organization’s sourcing, supplier management, and purchasing strategy across a diverse manufacturing environment including LED lighting, plastic injection molding, and metal tube bending for automotive applications.This role goes beyond transactional purchasing. It is a strategic leadership position that ensures material availability, cost competitiveness, supplier performance, and long-term supply chain resilience. The role directly impacts profitability, production continuity, and customer satisfaction by aligning sourcing decisions with business objectives.Purpose of the RoleTo ensure the organization consistently has the right materials, from the right suppliers, at the right cost, at the right time, while building a supply base that supports quality, innovation, and growth.Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic Sourcing & Supplier DevelopmentDevelop and execute sourcing strategies across key commodities (resins, electronics, metals, components) Identify, qualify, and develop high-performing suppliers domestically and globally Lead supplier negotiations, contracts, and long-term agreements Drive dual sourcing and risk mitigation strategies Cost Management & Value EngineeringLead cost reduction initiatives through negotiation, design collaboration, and process improvement Partner with engineering on value analysis/value engineering (VA/VE) efforts Monitor market trends (commodities, resins, electronics) and adjust strategies accordingly Operational Purchasing ExecutionOversee purchasing processes including PO placement, order tracking, and supplier communication Ensure alignment between demand planning, production schedules, and material supply Resolve supply disruptions quickly and effectively Supplier Performance ManagementEstablish and monitor supplier KPIs (quality, delivery, cost, responsiveness) Lead supplier reviews and corrective action processes Build strong, professional relationships with key suppliers Cross-Functional LeadershipCollaborate with Engineering, Production, Quality, and Finance Support new product launches with sourcing strategy and supplier readiness Act as a key contributor in S&OP / production planning discussions Team Leadership Lead and develop buyers/planners (if team structure exists) Establish standard work, best practices, and accountability systems Key Processes Owned or LedStrategic sourcing & supplier selection Supplier on-boarding & qualification Purchase order management & fulfillment tracking Cost reduction / VA-VE initiatives Supplier performance management & scorecards Supply risk assessment & mitigation planning New product sourcing & launch support Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)Material cost savings (% and $ impact) Supplier on-time delivery performance Supplier quality (PPM, defects) Inventory turns / working capital impact Purchase price variance (PPV) Supplier lead time reduction Supply disruption frequency and recovery time Key InterfacesEngineering (product design, material selection) Production / Operations (schedule alignment, shortages) Quality (supplier quality performance, audits) Finance (cost tracking, budgeting, cash flow) Sales / Program Management (new product launches, customer requirements) External suppliers and vendors Leadership ExpectationsThink strategically while acting operationally Drive accountability with data and clear expectations Communicate in an Adult-to-Adult, solution-oriented manner Lead through influence, not just authority Balance cost, quality, and delivery without compromise Core Values Demonstrated in the RoleOwnership and accountability Continuous improvement mindset Integrity in supplier relationships Fact-based decision making Collaboration across functions Why This Role MattersThis role is critical to ensuring the business can deliver on its commitments to customers while maintaining strong financial performance. The right leader in this position will shape the supply chain into a competitive advantage, driving reliability, cost efficiency, and scalability.Opportunity for GrowthThis Role Offers The Opportunity ToInfluence company-wide strategy Build and shape the supplier network Lead continuous improvement initiatives Grow into broader operational or executive leadership rolesRequirementsRequired QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or related field 7+ years of purchasing/sourcing experience in manufacturing Experience in one or more of the following:Plastic injection molding Electronics / LED components Metal fabrication / tube bending Automotive or Tier 1 / Tier 2 supply chains Strong negotiation and supplier management experience Proven track record of cost savings and supplier development Preferred QualificationsExperience leading or mentoring a purchasing team Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems APICS / CPSM or similar certification Experience working with global suppliers Personal AttributesHighly proactive and results-driven Strong analytical and problem-solving skills Comfortable making decisions in fast-paced environments Excellent communicator and relationship builder Able to balance strategic thinking with day-to-day execution