Strategic Buyer – Direct Materials (North America)

Quick Facts

• Focus: Strategic sourcing for assigned direct commodities in North America
• Partners with: Engineering, Quality, Logistics, Operations, and global commodity organization
• Emphasis: Cost, quality, and delivery performance; resilient supplier base
• Salary range: $82,900–$91,000 annually (based on experience)

Description

The Strategic Buyer – Direct Materials (North America) drives strategic sourcing initiatives, manages supplier relationships, and leads commercial negotiations for assigned commodities. The role optimizes cost, quality, and delivery while strengthening a competitive and resilient supply base. Responsibilities include supplier selection, RFQs, contract negotiation, supplier performance improvement, and localization opportunities.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic sourcing initiatives: supplier selection, RFQs, contract negotiation, and cost reduction programs
• Develop and execute commodity strategies aligned to business objectives and annual savings targets
• Negotiate pricing, contracts, and commercial terms with domestic and international suppliers
• Evaluate supplier capabilities, performance, and risks to ensure quality, reliability, and continuity of supply
• Manage end-to-end procurement from sourcing through contract execution and delivery
• Drive continuous improvement using cost/quality/delivery metrics
• Analyze market trends, cost drivers, and supplier quotations for data-driven decisions
• Identify and execute localization opportunities (foreign-to–North American sourcing transitions)
• Lead or support annual price negotiations and business planning
• Resolve supplier-related escalations (quality, logistics, pricing discrepancies) with cross-functional teams
• Maintain and strengthen long-term supplier relationships
• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior buyers, as applicable
• Participate in global commodity teams and initiatives (including possible international collaboration or travel)

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, or related field
• 3+ years of experience in procurement, strategic sourcing, or supply chain roles
• Proven experience negotiating supplier contracts and managing commercial relationships
• Experience in strategic sourcing and cost savings initiatives within a manufacturing environment
• Exposure to direct material purchasing (metals, castings, hydraulics, components, or similar)
• Strong analytical skills interpreting pricing structures, cost drivers, and market data
• ERP proficiency (SAP preferred) and Microsoft Excel
• Indefinite U.S. work authorization only; future sponsorship not available

Benefits

Salary range of $82,900–$91,000 annually (based on experience)