Trainee

Position Summary
The Supply Chain Capacity Buyer is responsible for the end-to-end execution of capacity studies to ensure the North American supply base can meet vehicle and powertrain production requirements. This role serves as the primary interface between Ford’s cross-functional teams and the supply base to vet capacity responses, manage funding requests, and ensure production supportability. The Buyer is responsible for the technical accuracy of capacity data and the timely implementation of containment actions to mitigate production risks.

Major Roles & Responsibilities
•Capacity Study Execution: Lead the vetting process for GCP/MCPV studies. Analyze supplier capacity responses (including sub-tier levels) to identify constraints and ensure supportability for vehicle/powertrain uplifts and mix changes.
•Cross-Functional Coordination: Collaborate daily with Supply Chain Buyers, Supplier Technical Assistance (STA), MP&L, Finance, Cost Estimating, and Global Vendor Tooling (GVT) to validate supplier claims and align on capacity solutions.
•CPAT & Funding Preparation: Prepare and consolidate all materials for the Capacity Planning Attribute Team (CPAT). Ensure funding requests are accurate, well-documented, and submitted in accordance with established Supply Chain Procedures.
•Supplier Management & Containment: Coordinate supplier kick-off meetings and track the progress of Interim Containment Actions (ICAs). Ensure suppliers remain committed to study implementation dates and provide regular status updates on critical constraints.
•Data Integrity & Reporting: Maintain and update capacity tracking files with high precision. Provide data-driven insights to the Supervisor to support executive reporting and internal audits.
•Constraint Resolution: Proactively identify potential supply bottlenecks and work with STA and the supplier to develop mitigation plans before they impact production.

Competencies & Qualifications
•Project Management: Demonstrated ability to manage multiple supplier studies simultaneously, ensuring all milestones are met for study implementation and closure.
•Functional Expertise: Experience in a Production Buying environment, STA, or Manufacturing. Knowledge of production supply chain sourcing, detailed Cost Analysis, and manufacturing basics (FMEA, Lean, or Waste Elimination).
•Analytical Skills: Strong ability to analyze complex supplier data, identify discrepancies in capacity reporting, and translate findings into actionable funding or containment requests.
•Communication & Professionalism: Ability to professionally manage supplier relations and communicate effectively with cross-functional stakeholders to establish facts through data.
•Technical Proficiency: Intermediate to Advanced skills in Microsoft Office (Excel and PowerPoint). Ability to quickly learn and navigate internal Ford systems (GCP, MCPV, PUB etc.).
•Adaptability: Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with minimal guidance. Embraces the "Ready for Anything" mindset to handle shifting production volumes and priorities. Preferred Experience