Strategic Buyer

XLR8 EMS•San Diego, CA

About The Position

The Strategic Buyer is responsible for developing and executing sourcing strategies that support company objectives related to cost, quality, delivery, inventory management, and supplier performance. This role manages supplier relationships, negotiates pricing and contracts, identifies cost-saving opportunities, mitigates supply chain risks, and ensures material availability to support production and customer requirements.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in supply chain management, Business Administration, Operations Management, or related field preferred.
Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
5+ years of purchasing, sourcing, or supply chain experience.
Experience negotiating pricing, contracts, and supplier agreements.
Experience in manufacturing, electronics, EMS, aerospace, medical, or industrial environments preferred.
Experience with ERP/MRP systems.
Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.
Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
Knowledge of supply chain, procurement, inventory management, and sourcing principles.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Experience with cost analysis and supplier performance metrics.

Nice To Haves

CPIM, CPSM, CSCP, or related supply chain certification.
Experience sourcing electronic components, PCBAs, mechanical parts, or contract manufacturing services.
Knowledge of ISO, AS9100, ITAR, or regulated manufacturing environments.
Experience supporting NPI and low-volume/high-mix manufacturing.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement sourcing strategies for assigned commodities and suppliers.
Analyze market trends, supplier capabilities, and industry conditions to support purchasing decisions.
Identify and qualify new suppliers to improve competitiveness, capacity, and supply chain resilience.
Conduct supplier evaluations and participate in supplier selection activities.
Negotiate pricing, payment terms, lead times, and supply agreements.
Identify and implement cost reduction opportunities through sourcing initiatives, value engineering, and supplier negotiations.
Analyze spending trends and develop cost-saving strategies.
Support annual budgeting and cost reduction targets.
Identify supply chain risks and develop mitigation plans.
Monitor market conditions, component shortages, and supplier financial stability.
Develop alternate sourcing strategies to minimize supply disruptions.
Support business continuity planning initiatives.
Build and maintain strong supplier relationships.
Lead supplier business reviews and performance evaluations.
Monitor supplier performance related to quality, delivery, responsiveness, and cost.
Drive corrective actions and continuous improvement initiatives with suppliers.
Review MRP requirements and ensure timely placement of purchase orders.
Manage supplier commitments and expedite critical materials when necessary.
Monitor inventory levels and support inventory optimization efforts.
Ensure compliance with company purchasing policies and procedures.
Work closely with Engineering, Program Management, Production, Planning, Quality, and Finance.
Support NPI (New Product Introduction) and customer quote activities.
Participate in DFM (Participate in Design for Manufacturability), sourcing, and cost-reduction projects.
Provide purchasing expertise during product transitions and supplier changes.
Prepare and present purchasing metrics and supplier performance reports.
Analyze PPV (Purchase Price Variance), supplier performance, and inventory trends.
Maintain accurate purchasing records and supplier data within the ERP system.