Commodity Manager

kreate•Findlay, OH

About The Position

A Commodity Manager oversees procurement, supply chain management, and strategic sourcing of commodities essential to the organization. The role includes negotiating with suppliers, analyzing market trends, creating and reviewing demand plans, and developing long-term sourcing strategies to support cost-effective, timely procurement. The Commodity Manager works with production, finance, logistics, purchasing, and other teams to align sourcing and supply chain activities with business objectives. The position develops commodity strategies, manages supplier relationships and performance, conducts cost analysis and budgeting, oversees inventory and delivery, and ensures compliance with regulatory requirements and company policies. It also identifies supply chain process improvements and risks, develops and uses KPIs to meet annual goals, and drives cost, technology, and value improvements with suppliers. The role evaluates data, anticipates obstacles, and develops actionable plans, while reviewing supplier performance and seeking new partnership opportunities. The Commodity Manager maintains relationships with internal and external stakeholders, communicates market changes and supply impacts, supports new business initiatives, and assists leadership in maintaining effective relationships between procurement and suppliers. The position is expected to comply with Health, Safety and Environmental Policies and contribute to a cohesive, effective team. The role is located in Findlay, Ohio, and reports to the Director of Purchasing. Kreate is an equal opportunity employer. The posting states that its listed duties describe the general nature and level of the work and are not exhaustive; they do not establish a contract of employment and may change at the company's discretion.

Requirements

At least 5–7 years of experience in procurement or supply chain management.
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in supply chain management, business administration, or a related field.
Proven experience in a purchasing management role, preferably in automotive or manufacturing.
Proven ability to add value, reduce costs, and make business improvements.
Experience in contract management and supplier management.
Project management experience.
Knowledge and technical understanding of automotive processes and components and supply chain management.
Experience with ERP systems and procurement software.
Knowledge of global supply chain operations.
Strong analytical skills and experience with data analysis tools.
Proven track record in negotiation and supplier management.
Excellent communication, interpersonal, relationship management, and influencing skills.
Strong negotiation and contract management skills, including the ability to negotiate at all levels.
Ability to analyze market trends and make informed decisions.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel, and relevant procurement software.
Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and accuracy.
Ability to work collaboratively in a cross-functional team environment.
Excellent problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities.
Proven management skills and the ability to optimize team performance and development.
Results orientation and ability to plan and deliver against project deadlines.
Commercial and financial awareness, including experience managing budgets.

Nice To Haves

Relevant business and/or supply chain management degree is preferred.
Professional certification such as CPSM, CPM, or CSCP is preferred but not mandatory.
Experience in an industry relevant to the commodities being managed.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement commodity strategies aligned with business objectives.
Negotiate supplier contracts and agreements to secure advantageous terms.
Analyze market trends and forecasts to identify risks and opportunities.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment and effective communication.
Monitor supplier performance against defined metrics and manage supplier relationships to maintain quality, cost, and delivery.
Conduct cost analysis and budgeting for cost-effective procurement.
Identify and implement process improvements to enhance supply chain efficiency.
Manage inventory levels and oversee timely delivery of commodities.
Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and company policies.
Develop and maintain risk management strategies.
Work with appropriate teams to identify gaps in supply chain processes.
Partner with appropriate team members to determine demand management strategies.
Develop and use supply chain KPIs to meet annual goals and objectives.
Drive cost, technology, and value improvements through VA/VE discussions with suppliers across the supply chain.
Work with appropriate team members to identify sourcing needs.
Conduct quarterly business reviews with strategic partners and monitor performance in quality, delivery, value, and innovation.
Evaluate information and data to make decisions, anticipate obstacles, develop solutions, and create actionable strategies and operational plans.
Work with the purchasing team to analyze the supplier landscape for new entrants and emerging technologies and identify partnership opportunities.
Develop and maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders to support optimal performance.
Collaborate, negotiate, and engage with stakeholders to facilitate delivery and compliance with the purchasing strategy.
Communicate market changes and potential supply impacts to stakeholders and recommend solutions that optimize cost without compromising quality or service.
Monitor changes affecting supply and demand for products and materials and advise others of potential impacts.
Contribute to new business initiatives and projects and review and communicate their impact on purchasing activities.
Assist leadership in maintaining an effective interface between procurement and suppliers to support relationships with client businesses.
Comply with Health, Safety and Environmental Policies.
Contribute proactively to a positive team atmosphere, anticipate and overcome obstacles, take ownership of team cohesion and development, and embrace personal challenges.