Commodity Buyer, Steering Systems

Ford • Dearborn, MI

1d

About The Position

Lead Strategic Sourcing: Own the end-to-end sourcing process for steering systems on future vehicle programs, from understanding technical requirements and developing a global bid-list to presenting the final sourcing recommendation to leadership. Drive Commercial Negotiations: Develop and execute sophisticated negotiation strategies to achieve aggressive material cost targets, leveraging deep cost-driver analysis and creative commercial levers. Manage Supplier Performance: Act as the primary commercial contact for a portfolio of global steering suppliers. You will manage their performance across Quality, Cost, Delivery, and Risk (QCDR) and build productive, long-term relationships. Disrupt and Innovate: Actively scout, evaluate, and onboard new, innovative suppliers to challenge the status quo and ensure Ford has access to the latest technology at the best value. Become the Commodity Expert: Serve as the internal commercial authority for the steering commodity. You will analyze industry trends, assess supplier financial health, and provide critical market intelligence to our engineering, finance, and program teams. Ensure Flawless Launches: Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including Product Development, Quality, and Supply Chain, to ensure all program milestones are met and parts are delivered on time for new vehicle launches. Established and active employee resource groups

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Engineering, or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience in direct material purchasing, strategic sourcing, or commodity management within a manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated experience leading complex commercial negotiations and a proven track record of delivering cost savings.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data, understand cost models, and make data-driven strategic decisions.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships and influence stakeholders at all levels.

Nice To Haves

• An MBA or a Master's degree in Supply Chain Management.
• Direct purchasing experience within the automotive industry.
• Experience sourcing technically complex, engineered commodities (e.g., chassis, powertrain, electronics).
• A deep understanding of the strategic sourcing process, supplier quality (Q1), and program management (APQP).
• A professional certification such as CPSM (Certified Professional in Supply Management) or PMP (Project Management Professional).
• Experience working with a global supply base.

Responsibilities

• Own the end-to-end sourcing process for steering systems
• Develop a global bid-list
• Present the final sourcing recommendation to leadership
• Develop and execute sophisticated negotiation strategies
• Achieve aggressive material cost targets
• Manage supplier performance across Quality, Cost, Delivery, and Risk (QCDR)
• Build productive, long-term relationships
• Scout, evaluate, and onboard new, innovative suppliers
• Analyze industry trends
• Assess supplier financial health
• Provide critical market intelligence to our engineering, finance, and program teams
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to ensure all program milestones are met

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees