Manager, Direct Procurement

Plexus Worldwide•Scottsdale, AZ

About The Position

The role Lead and scale Plexus’ Direct Procurement function and Third-Party Manufacturing (3PM) strategy to enable business growth, accelerate product launches, and improve cost, quality, and supply reliability. This role owns supplier performance across the 3PM network and drives cross-functional execution aligned with Plexus’ enterprise strategy, budgets, and operational standards. The employee value proposition This role is ideal for a procurement leader who thrives in cross-functional, high-impact environments, enjoys owning outcomes, and wants to expand their influence across the health and wellness, beauty, and personal care manufacturing ecosystems. Success requires independent execution, strategic thinking, and strong partnership with internal and external stakeholders. Key performance objectives (0-12 months) 1. 3PM Strategy & Supplier Performance Develop and execute a scalable 3PM strategy aligned to Plexus growth, innovation, and cost objectives. Achieve consistent On-Time-In-Full (OTIF) delivery performance across the supplier network. Establish and maintain clear supplier KPIs, performance scorecards, and quarterly business reviews for all external manufacturers and co-packers. 2. Cost, Quality & Continuous Improvement Deliver year-over-year cost reduction and cost avoidance targets through strategic sourcing, negotiations, and supplier optimization. Navigate tariffs and provide Plexus visibility into changes in cost structure, as well as strategic sourcing alternatives to avoid increases in cost Improve supplier quality performance by proactively identifying risks, triggering corrective actions, and partnering with Quality and Technical teams. Drive continuous improvement initiatives across inventory control, lead times, quality, and production efficiency. 3. New Product Launch Execution Successfully manage multiple, concurrent new product launches, meeting aggressive speed-to-market timelines from concept through first production. Ensure launch readiness across supply, capacity, quality, and regulatory requirements without compromising customer satisfaction or compliance. 4. Cross-Functional Leadership & Issue Resolution Act as a key contributor to Brand Development and Brand Growth initiatives, partnering with Marketing, Product Development, Planning, Quality, and Regulatory teams. Lead rapid resolution of operational issues (quality, supply constraints, production disruptions), engaging internal experts and supplier partners as needed. Proactively identify risks and roadblocks and implement solutions to protect timelines, budgets, and service levels. 5. Team & Stakeholder Leadership Set clear priorities and expectations for the Direct Procurement team aligned with Plexus enterprise KPIs. Build strong, trust-based relationships with suppliers, co-packers, and strategic partners (including insurance and supply partners) to unlock long-term value. Support short-lead-time capacity needs during demand spikes or production disruptions.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Purchasing, Procurement, Engineering, Logistics, Business, or related field (or equivalent experience).
5+ years of purchasing/procurement experience, including supplier evaluations and contract negotiations.
Demonstrated success negotiating supplier contracts and managing cost drivers influenced by market conditions.

Nice To Haves

3+ years of people leadership experience preferred.
Senior Professional in Supply Management (SPSM) and APICS CSCP preferred.

Responsibilities

Lead supplier negotiations and contracts, ensuring favorable commercial terms and performance accountability.
Monitor inventory health using consumption rates, storage characteristics, and market conditions to optimize stock levels at all distribution facilities.
Ensure supplier compliance through open order reports, audits, GMP adherence, and Plexus operational standards.
Maintain deep operational understanding of Plexus GMPs, product technologies, plant capabilities, and manufacturing constraints.
Travel as required to support supplier visits, audits, technical reviews, and new product launches.
Provide flexibility to support critical business needs during off-hours, as needed.