Sourcing Lead

Polaris Inc.•Plymouth, MN

2d•$85,000 - $95,000•Hybrid

About The Position

You will manage supplier relationships and sourcing activities within assigned commodity categories to support business objectives related to cost, quality, delivery, and supply continuity. In this role, you will collaborate with suppliers and cross-functional teams to execute sourcing strategies, evaluate supplier capabilities, support product programs, and drive continuous improvement initiatives. You will use market analysis, negotiation, and supplier performance management techniques to identify opportunities and mitigate supply chain risks. You will also help ensure supplier readiness and alignment throughout product development and production lifecycle activities. This role offers the opportunity to influence strategic sourcing decisions and deliver measurable business impact across multiple functions and production operations.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business Administration, or a technical field.
Minimum of 4 years of purchasing or related professional experience.
Experience developing and managing supplier relationships and sourcing activities.
Knowledge of supplier performance management, cost reduction methodologies, and negotiation practices.
Ability to read and interpret engineering documentation and technical data.
Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to present information to leadership and cross-functional stakeholders.
Demonstrated organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
Experience using project management tools and supporting cross-functional projects.

Nice To Haves

APICS CPIM and/or ISM C.P.M./A.P.P. certification preferred.
Familiarity with MAPICS MRP and web-based business systems preferred.

Responsibilities

Manage relationships with assigned suppliers and establish new supplier partnerships to support effective communication, alignment, and business objectives.
Execute sourcing activities, including requests for quotations and proposals, supplier evaluations, supplier selection recommendations, and participation in supply agreement and long-term agreement activities.
Implement commodity strategies by incorporating business objectives, internal customer requirements, supply chain priorities, risk considerations, and growth plans.
Develop and execute cost reduction initiatives, including fact-based negotiations, market analysis, should-cost modeling, supplier transitions, and contractual cost savings commitments.
Monitor and drive supplier performance related to quality, delivery, capacity, and lead times to support production requirements and operational goals.
Manage project cost, schedule, technical requirements, and drawing release status while leading corrective actions when needed.
Support supplier quality investigations by assisting with root cause analysis, containment activities, and corrective action implementation.
Conduct make-versus-buy analyses and support sourcing decisions through data-driven evaluations.
Coordinate resources and schedules across multiple departments to support product development, launch, production, and ongoing manufacturing operations.
Assist with supply continuity efforts, including support of component shortages and delivery issues as required.