Strategic Sourcing Buyer

Strategic Sourcing Buyer

The Strategic Sourcing Buyer is a critical member of the Supply Chain team, responsible for leading supplier quoting and negotiation activities while supporting and executing established global commodity strategies. This role also develops and implements sourcing strategies for non-global and regionally managed suppliers to ensure optimal cost, quality, delivery, and supply continuity.

The Strategic Sourcing Buyer works closely with Global Commodity Managers, suppliers, and cross-functional partners including Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, Planning, and Finance. This position balances strategic sourcing responsibilities with operational awareness and focuses on driving supplier performance, cost improvement, and supply chain effectiveness.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and evaluate RFQs, supplier quotations, delivery timelines, and sourcing alternatives using total cost of ownership principles.
• Support Global Commodity Managers by executing global commodity strategies through supplier sourcing, negotiations, and implementation activities.
• Develop and manage sourcing strategies for non-global, regional, or localized suppliers.
• Act as a primary sourcing interface between the company and assigned suppliers, ensuring clear communication and alignment.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Manufacturing, and Planning teams on sourcing decisions, supplier capabilities, and cost-reduction initiatives.
• Identify and implement supplier improvement opportunities related to cost, quality, lead time, delivery, and overall supply chain effectiveness.
• Negotiate pricing, commercial terms, and supply agreements in alignment with sourcing and commodity strategies.
• Analyze supplier cost structures, market conditions, and supply risks to support informed sourcing decisions.
• Support new product development and launch activities by coordinating supplier sourcing, quoting, and readiness.
• Monitor supplier performance and drive corrective actions related to delivery, quality, responsiveness, and cost.
• Partner with Buyers and Planners to ensure sourcing strategies are properly executed within ERP/MRP systems.
• Participate in cross-functional meetings to align sourcing priorities, resolve issues, and support operational requirements.
• Support company KPIs, including cost reduction, supplier on-time delivery (OTD), quality performance, and supply continuity.
• Identify and implement supply chain improvement initiatives related to supplier lead time reduction, material availability, and supply continuity.
• Develop and negotiate commercial supply arrangements, such as stocking agreements, consignment inventory, or similar models, to support sourcing and operational objectives.
• Evaluate sourcing decisions based on total cost of ownership, including lead time, inventory impact, and supply risk considerations.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelors degree in business, Engineering, Supply Chain, or a related field.
• Minimum of 58 years of relevant experience in sourcing, procurement, or supply chain roles within industrial or manufacturing environments.
• Demonstrated experience leading supplier quoting, negotiation, and sourcing decisions.
• Strong negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented with a strong commitment to follow-through.
• Solid understanding of MRP/ERP systems and supply chain planning tools.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications (machined, fabricated, and mechanical parts).
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to evaluate supplier costs and total cost of ownership.

Core Competencies:

Customer Focus

• Dedicated to understanding and meeting internal customer needs across Engineering, Manufacturing, Planning, and Operations.
• Balances customer requirements with sourcing strategy, cost, and supply considerations.
• Acts with urgency and ownership in addressing sourcing or supplier issues impacting operations.

Collaboration & Relationship Building

• Builds strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external suppliers.
• Partners across departments to drive alignment, share information, and resolve sourcing-related challenges.
• Works closely with Global Commodity Managers to support and implement commodity strategies.

Effective Communication

• Conveys sourcing strategies, supplier recommendations, and risks clearly and confidently.
• Communicates effectively across multiple audiences to drive understanding and action.
• Presents data-driven insights to support informed decision-making.

Integrity & Trust

• Demonstrates honesty, transparency, and accountability in all sourcing activities.
• Maintains confidentiality and adheres to company policies and ethical standards.
• Builds trust through consistent behavior and ownership of outcomes.

Core Benefits:

• Competitive salary
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and holidays
• Professional development opportunities
• Collaborative and innovative work environment

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement Time Manufacturing Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.