Strategic Buyer

We are seeking a Strategic Buyer to drive supplier selection, sourcing strategies, and contract management that support our business goals. In this role, you will identify and evaluate suppliers, negotiate agreements, and collaborate cross-functionally with teams to optimize cost, mitigate risk, and improve supplier performance. 

What you’ll do:

• Identify, evaluate, and qualify new suppliers to support capacity needs, improve competitiveness, and introduce innovation into the supply base.
• Develop and execute long-term sourcing strategies that support organizational goals, including cost optimization, risk reduction, and supplier innovation.
• Build and manage strategic supplier relationships, leading high-level negotiations on contracts, pricing, terms, and multi-year agreements to secure competitive and sustainable value.
• Collaborate with production and logistics on capex-spend for projects.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with operations, engineering, quality, and finance to understand business needs, forecast demand, and align procurement strategy with organizational priorities.
• Conduct market and spend analyses to identify opportunities for consolidation, cost savings, and supplier performance improvements.
• Lead supplier selection and evaluation processes, including RFQ development, bid analysis, and award recommendations based on total cost of ownership and strategic fit.
• Monitor supplier performance using defined metrics (cost, quality, delivery, risk) and drive continuous improvement initiatives with key suppliers.
• Partner with the quality department on supplier audits, performance reviews, and corrective action planning to ensure compliance and long-term capability.
• Proactively identify risks in the supply base and propose mitigation strategies, including dual-sourcing, inventory planning, and supplier development efforts.
• Work with management to develop solutions for sourcing challenges and present strategic recommendations for decision-making.
• Oversee contract lifecycle management, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and alignment with company policies.
• Track market trends, industry developments, and emerging technologies to inform sourcing strategies and provide insights to leadership.
• Ensure timely and accurate procurement activities by coordinating closely with suppliers to maintain delivery, quality, and service expectations.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE 

• Experience with specialty alloys, preferably stainless steel 
• Bachelor's degree from four-year College or University
• AND 4 to 6 years related Sourcing/Purchasing experience
• OR a combination of education and experience
• Strong understanding of electronic components, materials, and manufacturing processes
• Proven Purchasing experience, preferably within the electronics industry
• CPIM or CSCP certification preferred