Category Implementation Buyer - Platform Stampings

Ford Motor Company•Dearborn, MI

46d

About The Position

We are the movers of the world and the makers of the future. We get up every day, roll up our sleeves and build a better world -- together. At Ford, we're all a part of something bigger than ourselves. Are you ready to change the way the world moves? In this position... The Category Implementation Buyer is responsible for the strategic sourcing, business development and supply continuity that are critical to achieving the Ford+ plan of improving bottom-line automotive operations and securing Ford Motor Company's place in the ever-changing automotive landscape of tomorrow. Category Implementation team members interface with internal and external stakeholders alike to ensure that the right supply partner is chosen to deliver the best product, on the right vehicle, at the right price with outstanding quality and on-time performance. This role focuses on the steel and aluminum stamped parts and welded assemblies located on the Platform (underbody) of the vehicle. The role has a high-level interaction with Product Development, Manufacturing, STA, and MP&L at all levels, and requires the ability to work well in a team environment. Category Implementation Buyer - Platform Stampings The Category Implementation Buyer is responsible for the strategic sourcing, business development and supply continuity that are critical to achieving the Ford+ plan of improving bottom-line automotive operations and securing Ford Motor Company's place in the ever-changing automotive landscape of tomorrow

Responsibilities

Develop and successfully execute negotiations strategies to deliver material efficiencies (TVM) and minimize inflationary costs, which requires developing deeper understanding of cost drivers and levers.
Support Quality initiatives by holding suppliers accountable and sourcing to Q1 sites or achieving Q1 sites where targeted/aligned.
Develop supplier strategies based on Category Manager input, allowing team to source programs at target, on time while managing cost, quality and risk.
Support CST and cross-functional teams in managing critical supplier concerns.
Accountable to work closely with others to meet deadlines with excellence; drive others to deliver required materials on time and with quality.
Strategic Sourcing & Negotiation:
Understand upcoming program sourcing and key milestones in support of launch
Align with the Category Manager on the supplier bid-list, considering industry trends, technologies, and strategic supplier analysis
Conduct appropriate sourcing activities that deliver a quality part at the best material cost to Ford Motor Company
Possess effective presentation skills to executive leadership to demonstrate the "Why" behind a particular sourcing decision
Provide feedback to valued supply partners on cost position relative to market and build effective long-term, productive relationships.
Create supplier negotiation strategies and lead commercial TVM negotiations, and supplier QCDR meetings.
Lead 'Fix/Exit/Leave' supplier strategies as needed.
Business Plan Development:
Work with the strategic Category Manager, the Global Commodity Team, and Product Development to understand the latest supply base footprint, financial health ratings, technologies, and trends
Work directly with Supply Chain and the Finance organization to develop a holistic year-over-year commodity cost position
Understand and set cost savings goals to achieve on an annual basis by identifying pure commercial leverage versus design efficiencies and end-to-end supply chain improvements
Develop material cost roadmaps that deliver corporate objectives and ensure long-term viability
Possess effective presentation skills to executive leadership to demonstrate the "Why" behind a particular commercial settlement and outlook
Supply Continuity and Support
Provide support to the Critical Supply Team and STA where part quality and shortages become prevalent
Work with engineering to identify alternative technologies or sources of supply to maintain a consistent flow of product into Ford production facilities
Close all commercial issues in a timely, effective, and competitive manner to not risk plant build objectives.
Other Responsibilities:
Ad hoc travel as required to supply partners
Be a leader - look at all existing processes and challenge if improvements could be made, regardless of scale
Complete all systems training required to complete day-to-day operations of the Category Implementation role
Attend internal and external workshops with key stakeholders for continued process improvements
Hold effective working-level meetings with Supply partners for fast issue closure and relationship development