Purchasing Manager

Purchasing ManagerLocation: Zeeland, MI Relocation Assistance Available for out-of-area candidates Our client is seeking an experienced Purchasing Manager to lead purchasing operations, supplier strategy, cost optimization, and the continued development of a strong procurement team. This is a visible leadership position for someone who can balance strategic sourcing initiatives with the day-to-day realities of supporting a fast-paced manufacturing operation. This person will oversee a team of 3 and will have meaningful ownership over supplier performance, purchasing strategy, budgeting, negotiations, cost reduction, and continuous improvement.ResponsibilitiesLead the site's purchasing function and provide strategic direction for purchasing and procurement activities. Manage, coach, and develop a team of 3, establishing clear priorities, expectations, and performance objectives. Develop purchasing strategies that support short- and long-term operational and business objectives. Prepare and manage annual purchasing plans, departmental budgets, forecasts, and related financial objectives. Develop, maintain, and continuously improve a high-performing supplier base focused on quality, cost, delivery, and service. Lead supplier selection, sourcing, negotiations, contract discussions, and ongoing supplier relationship management. Identify and execute cost reduction, cost avoidance, VA/VE, and continuous improvement initiatives. Monitor supplier performance and work directly with suppliers to address quality, delivery, capacity, commercial, and operational concerns. Partner cross-functionally with Operations, Materials, Quality, Engineering, Finance, and other departments to ensure purchasing activities support business requirements. Support new programs, product launches, supplier transitions, and post-launch purchasing requirements. Establish purchasing controls, processes, policies, and procedures that support consistent execution and measurable improvement. Evaluate sourcing risks and develop strategies to strengthen supply continuity and supplier performance. Research and recommend new suppliers, processes, systems, technologies, and purchasing practices that can improve overall business performance. Negotiate or oversee the negotiation of favorable supplier agreements while maintaining productive long-term partnerships. Track purchasing performance and drive improvements related to cost, quality, delivery, inventory, and supplier effectiveness. Serve as a key purchasing leader and trusted partner to local management and the broader procurement organization.QualificationsBachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Procurement, Operations, Materials Management, or a related field; Approximately 8+ years of progressive purchasing experience in an automotive manufacturing environment 2+years of procurement leadership experience in an automotive manufacturing environment. Preferred Qualifications Purchasing or procurement leadership experience within the automotive or high-volume manufacturing industry. Experience working within a global or multi-site procurement organization. Background supporting VA/VE, supplier development, continuous improvement, and cost-reduction programs. Experience supporting new program launches and post-launch manufacturing operations. Strong knowledge of modern purchasing, materials management, and strategic sourcing best practices. Experience managing suppliers against measurable quality, cost, and delivery expectations.Titles Encouraged to Apply Procurement Manager Strategic Sourcing Manager Senior Purchasing Manager Commodity Manager