Strategic Purchasing Manager

ABOUT THE COMPANY Roppel Industries is a privately held, third-generation company specializing in engine cooling and heat exchange solutions for heavy-duty and industrial equipment. Founded in 1947, the company has grown from a radiator repair shop into a multi-state provider of radiators, charge air coolers, condensers, and custom-engineered systems supporting on-highway and off-highway applications. With a strong reputation for technical expertise, responsive service, and quality, Roppel partners with customers across trucking, construction, agriculture, and manufacturing to keep critical equipment running and minimize downtime. WHAT YOU’LL BE DOING Reporting to the President, the Strategic Purchasing Manager will lead the day-to-day procurement function while helping bring more structure and strategy to how sourcing supports the business. This is a hands-on role that partners closely with operations, engineering, and sales to ensure materials are sourced efficiently, costs are managed, and customer demand is met. Lead and oversee day-to-day procurement and purchasing activities, ensuring timely and cost-effective material flow Build and maintain strong supplier relationships, managing performance across cost, quality, delivery, and service Effectively manage outsourced importing while navigating tariff implications. Identify, evaluate, and onboard new suppliers to support growth and reduce supply risk Negotiate pricing, terms, and contracts to optimize cost and overall value Utilize your S&OP and forecasting experience to partner cross-functionally with operations, engineering, and sales to align purchasing and inventory with business needs Manage inventory strategies to balance service levels, working capital, and supply continuity Resolve supply, quality, and delivery issues through root‑cause analysis and corrective actions Develop and track key procurement KPIs to drive performance and accountability Leverage ERP systems to improve visibility, reporting, and operational efficiency Lead and develop the purchasing team, building structure, consistency, and capability across the function IDEAL CANDIDATE QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE 5–7+ years of purchasing or strategic sourcing experience within a manufacturing environment, with leadership or management experience preferred Strong understanding of procurement, inventory control, and supplier management best practices in order to see the big picture Experience working within ERP/MRP systems and proficiency with Microsoft Office tools. EOS experience would be a plus Willingness to travel to support supplier relationships KEY PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES Strong written and verbal communication skills Professional ethics, tact and courtesy Strong communicator and relationship builder with employees at all levels Must handle multiple projects simultaneously, change tasks with minimal notice Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment with shifting demands across the business Must be able to positively motivate individuals and suppliers to meet or exceed project expectations and delivery requirements THE PAYOFF You’ll step into a highly visible role with direct access to leadership, where you’ll have the opportunity to shape how sourcing and procurement support a growing, multi-state organization. This is a chance to make a tangible impact, bring more structure and strategy to the function, and play a key role in improving performance across the business. OUR COMMITMENT TO CANDIDATES Gilman Partners is committed to strengthening leadership teams and elevating talent in our communities—and that means all qualified applicants will receive consideration. You do not have to meet every qualification in this job description to apply. If you’re drawn to the position and believe your experience makes you a good fit, we encourage you to apply. #J-18808-Ljbffr Gilman Partners