Supply Chain Lead

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionThruway Fasteners, Inc.is one of the leading distributors of industrial products, supplying hundreds of original equipment manufacturers in 40 states and 28 countries. We help customers increase efficiency, drive growth, and rapidly respond to unique business challenges and opportunities. Thruway utilizes custom technology applications and vast industry specific knowledge to develop unique and flexible product management solutions. Headquartered in North Tonawanda, NY, Thruway has six branch locations across New York, Pennsylvania, and Georgia. POSITION SUMMARY:Thruway Inc. is seeking a proactive and results-driven Sourcing Lead to support and enhance our sourcing operations. This role is critical in ensuring product availability, competitive cost structures, and on-time delivery while building strong, strategic relationships with our supply chain partners.As a key member of the sourcing team, you will play an integral role in aligning suppliers with Thruway’s business goals and driving value across our organization.POSITION OVERVIEW:The Sourcing Lead leverages strong product knowledge and market insight to strategically align components with the right suppliers, optimizing quality, cost, and service outcomes.In this role, you will collaborate closely with the Sourcing Manager and Procurement team while also managing independent initiatives and projects. Your work will directly contribute to supplier development, process improvement, and overall supply chain performance.What You’ll Do:Partner with the Sourcing Manager to support daily operations and strategic sourcing initiativesCollaborate cross-functionally and independently manage key sourcing activities and projectsWork with Procurement to develop suppliers that align with Thruway’s inventory and operational goalsHelp implement and validate sourcing systems and processes that drive efficiency and scalabilityEngage with suppliers through communication, meetings, and occasional travelKey Responsibilities:Identify, evaluate, and develop suppliers with a focus on quality, reliability, cost, and capacitySupport sourcing strategies for corporate customer RFQs, including pricing, timelines, and supply planningAssist in benchmarking key product categories and driving competitive cost positioningContribute to high-risk and complex RFQs, including new products and custom componentsBuild and maintain strong supplier relationships to secure high-quality components at optimal total costEnsure ERP data accuracy and continuously improve system integrityPartner with internal teams (Sales, Procurement, and Branch Leadership) to align customer requirements with sourcing strategiesSupport cost reduction initiatives through benchmarking and re-sourcing effortsAnalyze and report on supply chain performance, identifying opportunities for improvementContinuously expand knowledge of industry standards, materials, coatings, and manufacturing processesPERFORMANCE METRICS:Success in this role will be measured by:Quote Success Rate: Driving RFQ wins and continuously improving win ratiosMargin Improvement: Contributing to reduced costs, improved efficiencies, reduced scrap and increased profitabilityHigh-Risk RFQ Support: Enhancing accuracy and reducing response timesSupplier Management: Maintaining effective Approved and Prospective Vendor Lists (AVL/PVL)Collaboration: Strong partnerships across sourcing, procurement, sales, and operationsInventory Support: Improving inventory turns and minimizing scrap and reworkQUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS:We’re looking for a motivated professional who thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment and is eager to make a measurable impact.Required Skills & Experience:Strong communication and relationship-building skillsProven ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlinesExperience with ERP systems (NetSuite preferred)Proficiency in Microsoft Office SuiteWorking knowledge of industrial and/or electrical hardwareStrong analytical, organizational, and time management skillsCustomer-focused mindset with excellent problem-solving abilitiesDemonstrated negotiation skillsTeam-oriented with a positive, proactive attitudeWORK ENVIRONMENT & TRAVELOccasional travel to branch locations and supplier sitesPrimarily office-based (approximately 80% seated, 20% active/movement)WHY JOIN THRUWAY?At Thruway, you’ll be part of a collaborative team where your expertise directly impacts business performance and customer success. This role offers the opportunity to develop supplier strategies, influence sourcing outcomes, and grow your career within a dynamic supply chain organization. Job Type: Full-timeSchedule: Monday-Friday Day shift (8:00am-4:30pm)Location: Syracuse, NYThruway Fasteners, Inc. offers a competitive and comprehensive benefit program with an employer contribution for eligible employees:Medical plan options including a Co-Pay plan and High-Deductible Healthcare plansDental (including orthodontic coverage for dependents up to age 19)Vision plan with choice Davis or VSP networksCompany paid Basic Life, AD&D and State DisabilityHealth Savings Account (HSA)Voluntary life insuranceVoluntary short-term and long-term disabilityVoluntary critical illness, accident insurance, theft & legal services, hospital indemnityEmployee Assistance ProgramPaid Time OffPaid Holidays401k retirement plan with employer matchEmployee Referral Program Thruway Fasteners, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to engaging a diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. The chosen candidate must successfully pass pre-employment (post offer) background check and drug screen.