Sr. Strategic Buyer- Direct Materials NA
Job Description
The Senior Strategic Buyer – Direct Materials (North America) is responsible for driving strategic sourcing initiatives, managing supplier relationships, and leading commercial negotiations across assigned commodities. This role plays a critical part in optimizing cost, quality, and delivery performance while strengthening a competitive and resilient supply base.
This position partners closely with cross-functional teams including Engineering, Quality, Logistics, and Operations, and serves as an integrated member of the global commodity organization.
Key Responsibilities
• Lead strategic sourcing initiatives, including supplier selection, RFQs, contract negotiation, and cost reduction programs
• Develop and implement commodity strategies aligned with business objectives and annual savings targets
• Negotiate pricing, contracts, and commercial terms with domestic and international suppliers
• Evaluate supplier capabilities, performance, and risks to ensure quality, reliability, and continuity of supply
• Manage end-to-end procurement activities from sourcing through contract execution and delivery
• Drive continuous improvement in supplier performance across cost, quality, and delivery metrics
• Analyze market trends, cost drivers, and supplier quotations to support data-driven decision making
• Identify and execute localization opportunities (transition from foreign to North American sourcing where applicable)
• Lead or support annual price negotiations and business planning for assigned commodities
• Collaborate cross-functionally to resolve supplier-related escalations (quality, logistics, pricing discrepancies)
• Maintain and strengthen supplier relationships to support long-term strategic partnerships
• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior buyers, as applicable
• Participate in global commodity teams and initiatives, including potential international collaboration or travel
Requirements
Function: Purchasing
Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level