Senior Procurement Specialist

Job Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute sourcing strategies for prototype parts, tooling, engineering services, and R&D-related materials.
• Negotiate supplier contracts, pricing, and terms to achieve cost savings, quality, and delivery targets.
• Partner closely with engineering and program management teams to align procurement with project timelines and technical requirements.
• Manage supplier relationships, including supplier selection, onboarding, master data management, performance tracking, and issue resolution.
• Create and manage purchase orders, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timely fulfillment.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior buyers on procurement best practices.
• Support cost analysis, benchmarking, and market intelligence to drive continuous improvement in sourcing.
• Collaborate with finance and legal teams on supplier agreements and compliance.
• Collaborate with finance and accounting teams to support budget planning, monitor financial performance, and resolve invoicing and billing discrepancies in a timely and accurate manner.
• Contribute in process improvement goals designed to effectively enhance the procurement process. Lead training of internal customers to ensure contract and procurement compliance.
• Assists Procurement Manager with design, implementation, and support of purchasing and vendor management systems and procedures to enhance the Purchasing operation.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Engineering, or related field.
• 5+ years of procurement experience, preferably in automotive or advanced manufacturing industries.
• Strong negotiation skills.
• Strong knowledge of strategic sourcing, supplier negotiations, and contract management.
• Proven ability to work cross-functionally in a fast-paced, project-driven R&D environment.
• Excellent communication, analytical, and organizational skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in automotive R&D or prototype procurement.
• Familiarity with SAP, SRM, or similar ERP/procurement systems.
• CPSM (Certified Professional in Supply Management) certification.
• Advanced Excel and data analysis skills.