Senior Commodity Buyer – Exterior Systems

Sorry, this job was removed at 04:58 p.m. (UTC) on Friday, Oct 02, 2026
Be an Early Applicant
Chennai, Tamil Nadu, IND
Hybrid
Senior level
Automotive
The Role
Leads sourcing, negotiations, cost reduction, supplier performance, and commodity strategy for exterior automotive components. Performs part cost analysis using drawings and CAD models, drives value engineering, manages supply and supplier risks, and supports global sourcing and localization initiatives. Requires expertise in plastics manufacturing, surface finishing, cost modeling, purchasing, Lean and Six Sigma, with Power BI knowledge preferred.
Summary Generated by Built In

In this role, you will lead sourcing and cost management initiatives for exterior components across regional and global programmes. You will work closely with cross-functional teams and suppliers to drive cost efficiency, ensure supply continuity, and support strategic sourcing initiatives.

A strong understanding of plastics manufacturing, surface treatments (painting/chroming), and cost analysis is essential. Experience with data analytics tools such as Power BI and exposure to AI-based insights will be advantageous.

Responsibilities

Programme & Sourcing

  • Develop and execute sourcing strategies to meet programme cost, quality, and timing targets
  • Lead negotiations for tooling and piece price to achieve business objectives
  • Support regional and global sourcing initiatives (IMG / North America programmes)

Cost & Value Management

  • Deliver year-on-year cost reductions through Total Value Management (TVM) initiatives
  • Conduct detailed part cost analysis using drawings and CAD models
  • Identify and implement value engineering and cost optimisation opportunities

Supplier Management

  • Build and maintain a competitive and sustainable supplier base
  • Drive supplier performance across quality, delivery, and cost
  • Identify high-risk suppliers and implement mitigation strategies
  • Support localisation initiatives to meet regulatory and cost requirements

Strategy Development

  • Contribute to global commodity strategies and align regional execution
  • Participate in global sourcing discussions and leverage supplier capabilities
  • Lead regional commodity planning for short- and long-term business goals

Continuous Improvement

  • Promote Lean and Six Sigma practices within supplier network
  • Drive knowledge sharing and best practice adoption across teams
Qualifications

Education

  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Production, Automotive or related fields preferred)

Core Skills

  • Strong negotiation and stakeholder management skills
  • Deep knowledge of plastics manufacturing and surface finishing processes (painting, chroming)
  • Experience in cost estimation and should-cost modelling
  • Understanding of GD&T and engineering drawings

Analytical & Technical Skills

  • Proficiency in cost analysis and financial evaluation (e.g., cost structures, ratios)
  • Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma concepts
  • Working knowledge of Power BI or similar analytics tools (preferred)

Functional Expertise

  • Experience in purchasing processes, systems, and policies
  • Exposure to global sourcing/development processes (e.g., GPDS or equivalent)

Other Skills

  • Strong communication and collaboration skills
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and stakeholders effectively

Skills Required

  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, preferably Mechanical, Production, Automotive, or a related field
  • Strong negotiation and stakeholder management skills
  • Deep knowledge of plastics manufacturing and surface finishing processes, including painting and chroming
  • Experience in cost estimation and should-cost modeling
  • Understanding of GD&T and engineering drawings
  • Proficiency in cost analysis and financial evaluation
  • Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma concepts
  • Working knowledge of Power BI or similar analytics tools
  • Experience in purchasing processes, systems, and policies
  • Exposure to global sourcing and development processes, such as GPDS or equivalent
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and stakeholders effectively

Ford Motor Company Compensation & Benefits Highlights

  • Healthcare Strength — Eligible employees can access medical, dental, and prescription coverage starting on the first day, with some zero-cost plan options and free mental health support. Benefits materials highlight comprehensive healthcare as a core pillar.
  • Retirement Support — Employees can enroll in a 401(k)-style plan from day one, and some salaried plans include a company match of $0.90 per dollar on the first 5% contributed. Official summaries also describe financial-planning support.
  • Parental & Family Support — The package includes paid parental leave, fertility, surrogacy, and adoption benefits, plus a ramp-up program for new parents returning to work. Flexible family-care days and other time-off options support caregiving needs.

Ford Motor Company Insights

Similar Jobs

Hybrid
Chennai, Tamil Nadu, IND
175633 Employees
Hybrid
Chennai, Tamil Nadu, IND
175633 Employees
In-Office
Chennai, Tamil Nadu, IND
175633 Employees
Hybrid
Chennai, Tamil Nadu, IND
175633 Employees
Get Personalized Job Insights.
Our AI-powered fit analysis compares your resume with a job listing so you know if your skills & experience align.

The Company
HQ: Dearborn, MI
175,633 Employees
Year Founded: 1903

What We Do

Ford is a global company with shared ideals and a deep sense of family. From our earliest days as a pioneer of modern transportation, we have sought to make the world a better place – one that benefits lives, communities and the planet. We are here to provide the means for every person to move and pursue their dreams, serving as a bridge between personal freedom and the future of mobility. In that pursuit, our 186,000 employees around the world help to set the pace of innovation every day.

Ford Motor Company Offices

OnSite Workspace

Typical time on-site: None
HQDearborn, MI
VIC
Allen Park, US
Beverly Hills, US
Canton, US
Clarkston, US
Clinton Township, US
Dearborn Heights, US
Detroit, US
Farmington Hills, US
Flat Rock, US
Livonia, US
Miami, US
Milford, US
New Hudson, US
Northville, US
Novi, US
Oak Park, US
Ottawa, ON
Palo Alto, CA
Romeo, US
Royal Oak, US
Southfield, US
Sterling Heights, US
Taylor, US
Troy, US
Wayne, US
Woodhaven, US
Learn more

Sign up now Access later

Create Free Account

Please log in or sign up to report this job.

Create Free Account