Sr. Buyer, Indirect

Job Summary You will be responsible for sourcing, negotiating, and managing Indirect purchases - Packaging & Corporate services Category. You will play a key part in ensuring material availability and cost competitiveness by developing and executing strategies in alignment with company goals. Job Responsibilities Strategic Sourcing: Develop and implement regional category strategies for packaging (corrugated, returnable packaging, dunnage, pallets, crates, protective packaging, labeling, etc.). Monitor market trends, raw material indices (paper, plastics, wood, steel), and assess risk exposure. Supplier Management: Build and maintain strong supplier relationships to ensure consistent material availability and performance. Conduct regular business reviews with key suppliers to monitor performance (cost, quality, delivery, service, sustainability). Negotiations: Lead supplier negotiations on pricing, contracts, and terms to optimize total cost of ownership. Cost Management: Drive cost reduction initiatives, report on material costs, and manage pricing structures and cost models that align with internal forecasts and budgets. Deliver year-over-year cost savings and productivity improvements for the packaging category. Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with Engineering and Production teams to understand technical requirements and timelines, and support product launches by ensuring timely procurement of specified resins and materials. Risk Mitigation and Supply Assurance: Identify supply chain risks and maintain dual sourcing strategies and inventory buffers where needed. Data and Reporting: Maintain accurate procurement records, supplier performance metrics, and commodity dashboards. Communication: Provide regular updates and strategic insights to senior leadership on commodity market outlooks and procurement performance. Compliance: Ensure all procurement activities comply with company policies, industry regulations, and environmental standards. Sustainability: Support sustainability initiatives by sourcing eco-friendly or recycled resin alternatives when applicable. Flexibility: This position supports Plant and Corporate Indirect Purchases and may also be required to support other categories as needed. Skills and Competencies Strong knowledge of MRO and Indirect materials procurement Proven track record in supplier negotiation, cost management, and contract management. Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills. Ability to navigate/ influence stakeholders across Operations, IT, HR, among others. Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret market data and make data-driven decisions. Proficiency in ERP systems and procurement tools (e.g., SAP, Ariba, Coupa). Understanding of sustainability practices and regulatory requirements in the automotive industry. Job Qualifications Education: Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field is required. Relevant certifications such as CPSM, CSCP, CPIM, CIPS, CPP/CPPM is highly beneficial. Minimum 5+ years of experience in strategic sourcing or procurement, preferably in a manufacturing or automotive environment. Experience working in cross-cultural environments or with global suppliers, especially in Asia, Europe, or North America. Understanding of quality systems such as ISO 9001, including IATF 16949, with experience working within a quality-driven manufacturing environment. Demonstrated experience managing raw material commodities, specifically plastics and resins. Strong background in global sourcing, supplier negotiations, and contract management. Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and procurement tools. Advanced skills in Microsoft Excel (cost modeling, forecasting, analysis). Proficient in contract and SLA development, including terms around delivery, quality, and penalties. Ability to conduct supplier audits and lead corrective action processes in collaboration with quality teams. Ability to develop and execute commodity strategies based on market intelligence, risk analysis, and long-term demand forecasting. Experience interpreting technical material specifications and working with engineering teams. Ability to travel domestically and internationally as needed. Knowledge of environmental regulations and sustainability trends in plastics/resins is beneficial Excellent negotiation and communication skills, with strong analytical, strategic thinking, and decision-making abilities. Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. High attention to detail and problem-solving capability. Working Conditions Physical Environment: Majority of time is spent in an office setting. There may be occasional exposure to manufacturing plants. Working Hours: Standard 40 hours a week. Additional hours may be required based on business demands. Occupational Stress: This role may involve dealing with unforeseen events such as material shortages or logistic issues that will require immediate attention and adjustments. Health and Safety: This role often requires extended periods of sitting at a desk and looking at a computer screen. Using proper ergonomic office equipment and taking breaks to stand and/or stretch is beneficial. There will be occasional exposure to the manufacturing plant environments; wearing appropriate PPE when entering this area is required. #J-18808-Ljbffr TI Automotive