Own activities related to procurement, storage, and shipment of materials
Champion cost, quality, delivery, productivity, and simplification initiatives
Document and celebrate all cost savings and avoidances
Cultivate strong, collaborative relationships with key vendors (not just transactional!)
Take the lead on vendor negotiations; price, delivery, and quality compliance
Build and manage a robust supplier base
Conduct impactful supplier visits, evaluations, and quality audits
Manage material price variance, boost inventory turns, and lead cost-reduction programs
Align supplier schedules with real-time material requirements (MRD adjustments)
Hit MOH targets and keep "non-active" inventory under control
Manage raw materials during exciting new product transitions/developments
Collaborate daily with operations, product, and engineering teams
Resolve day-to-day supply chain issues and escalate critical concerns to the Materials Manager when necessary.
Coordinate closely with Engineering on ECO implementation, deviations, end-of-life management, new product introductions, and supplier transitions.
Set up and onboard new suppliers, establish purchase agreements, and support supplier training related to planning and replenishment requirements.
Utilize total cost of ownership (TCO) principles when evaluating sourcing decisions and supplier performance.