
Category Buyer - Base Engine
- Fond du Lac, WI
- $72,000-115,300 per year
- Permanent
- Full-time
Develop and execute sourcing strategies for internal engine components – aligned with overall category strategy that align with business goals, market trends, and technology roadmaps.Supplier Management:
Identify, evaluate, and manage suppliers to ensure quality, delivery, cost, and innovation. Lead supplier performance reviews and continuous improvement initiatives.Cost Management & Negotiation:
Drive cost reduction initiatives through strategic negotiations, value engineering, and total cost of ownership analysis.Cross-Functional Collaboration:
Partner with engineering, manufacturing, quality, and logistics teams to support new product development, supplier transitions, and issue resolution.Market Intelligence & Risk Management:
Monitor market trends, commodity pricing, and geopolitical risks to proactively manage supply chain disruptions and opportunities.Contract Management:
Lead contract development, execution, and compliance for assigned categories, ensuring alignment with legal and corporate standards.Data Analysis & Reporting:
Utilize procurement analytics to track KPIs, identify savings opportunities, and support decision-making.Diversity of thought and experiences is fundamental when imagining the unimaginable. Certain skillsets/experiences are necessary; however, others can be developed along the way.Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Business, or related field (Master’s or MBA preferred)
- 5+ years of experience in strategic sourcing or category management, preferably in automotive or industrial manufacturing
- Strong technical understanding of internal combustion engines and components
- Proven negotiation skills and experience managing complex supplier relationships
- Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., SAP), sourcing tools, and data analytics platforms
- Excellent communication, project management, and stakeholder engagement skills
- Experience with global sourcing and supplier development
- Knowledge of regulatory and compliance standards related to engine components
- APICS, CPSM, or Six Sigma certification is a plus