Sr. Manager, Procurement R&D, Supply Chain, and Engineering

We are seeking an experienced and strategic Sr. Manager to lead the Engineering, Vehicle testing, Supply Chain, R&D, and Program Management services. This position is critical in driving cost-effective procurement strategies for engineering-related products, services, and solutions. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of engineering categories, cost management, and the ability to lead cross-functional teams in the development and execution of cost optimization strategies.

The Sr. Manager will work closely with the engineering, finance, and procurement teams to identify cost-saving opportunities, implement should cost models, and ensure that all sourcing activities align with the company's overall business objectives.

YOU WILL:

Strategic Procurement (80%):

1. Category Strategy Development:

• Lead the development and execution of category strategies for engineering, vehicle testing, prototype, vehicle safety performance, and test products, services, and software tools.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to understand engineering requirements and create sourcing strategies that optimize both cost and quality.
• Provide insight and data-driven recommendations to engineering teams for cost-effective design, manufacturing, and procurement decisions.
• Identify, qualify, and manage relationships with suppliers and vendors in the engineering category.
• Negotiate long-term contracts, agreements, and pricing terms with suppliers to secure cost-effective solutions.
• Monitor supplier performance, ensuring quality standards, delivery schedules, and cost targets are consistently met.
• Address and resolve supplier issues related to quality, delivery, and cost in a proactive manner.
• Work closely with engineering, finance, legal, and supply chain teams to ensure alignment of category and sourcing strategies with overall company goals.
• Support the engineering team with strategic sourcing decisions, ensuring the availability of the right tools and materials at the right cost.
• Partner with finance to establish budgets and forecasts for engineering categories, ensuring alignment with the company's financial goals.

Transformational Leadership (20%):

• Lead transformational procurement projects aimed at enhancing procurement processes, leveraging technology, and driving organizational efficiency.
• Champion sustainability initiatives within the procurement function, promoting environmentally responsible sourcing practices and supplier diversity.
• Develop and implement change management strategies to support procurement transformation initiatives.

YOU BRING:

• Curiosity: This position will require building-from-scratch thinking in a fast-paced environment.
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
• 12+ years of experience in category management, procurement, or sourcing, with a focus on engineering products and services.
• Strong experience in understanding modeling, cost optimization, and procurement strategies in an engineering or manufacturing environment.
• Proven track record of successfully managing cross-functional teams and driving cost reduction initiatives.
• In-depth knowledge of supply chain management, supplier negotiations, contract management, and cost analysis.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to apply data-driven insights to solve complex procurement challenges.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders.
• Proficient in procurement software (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Ariba) and advanced Excel skills.