Strategic Buyer

Chart Industries•The Woodlands, TX

19h•Hybrid

About The Position

The Strategic Sourcing Manager is responsible for developing and executing sourcing strategies for castings, forgings, machined and fabricated components, and other metal-based commodities. This role leads supplier selection, contract negotiations, cost reduction initiatives, and supply base optimization while ensuring quality, delivery, and operational requirements are met. Working cross-functionally with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, Operations, Procurement, and Category Management teams, this position plays a key role in establishing a competitive, resilient, and scalable supply chain that supports business growth and operational excellence.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field.
3 to 7+ years of experience in sourcing, procurement, commodity management, or supply chain management.
Experience sourcing castings, forgings, machined parts, fabricated components, or engineered mechanical components.
Strong analytical, financial, and problem-solving skills.
Experience negotiating contracts and managing supplier relationships.
Proficiency with ERP systems and Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel.
Ability to work effectively across multiple functions and business units.
Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
Ability to travel domestically and internationally as needed.

Nice To Haves

Experience within an industrial manufacturing environment.
Knowledge of global sourcing strategies and international supply chains.
Professional certifications such as CPSM, CPM, APICS/ASCM, or equivalent.
Technical knowledge of manufacturing processes including: Permanent mold castings, Sand castings, Die castings, Closed-die forgings, Open-die forgings, CNC machining, Welding, Surface finishing and coatings.

Responsibilities

Develop and execute sourcing strategies for designated commodities and supplier categories.
Identify, evaluate, and qualify new suppliers to support growth objectives, improve competitiveness, and strengthen supply chain resilience.
Lead RFQ and RFP activities, supplier evaluations, and sourcing decisions.
Negotiate pricing, contracts, and commercial terms to achieve the best total cost of ownership while maintaining quality and delivery expectations.
Analyze supplier quotations, cost structures, and manufacturing processes to identify and implement cost-saving opportunities.
Execute annual cost reduction initiatives and drive continuous improvement efforts across the supply base.
Conduct market research, supplier benchmarking, and industry analysis to support sourcing strategies.
Lead supplier rationalization and consolidation initiatives where appropriate.
Support supplier development activities focused on performance improvement and strategic partnership growth.
Partner with Engineering and Quality teams during product transfers, new product introductions, and supplier qualification activities.
Support make-versus-buy analyses and provide sourcing recommendations to key stakeholders.
Develop dual-source and contingency plans to minimize supply chain risk.
Collaborate with Category Management and cross-functional teams on strategic business initiatives.
Influence stakeholders and gain alignment on supplier selections, sourcing strategies, and procurement recommendations.
Assist in the implementation of regional and global sourcing strategies that leverage opportunities across North America and international operations.
Maintain compliance with company policies, procedures, safety requirements, and ethical business practices