Strategic Sourcing Buyer, Sr.

GKN Aerospace Services • Garden Grove, CA

90d • $99,738 - $124,672

About The Position

The Sr. Strategic Sourcing Buyer is responsible for leading procurement activities related to indirect materials, services, and capital equipment within aerospace and defense manufacturing operations. This role emphasizes the development and review of Statements of Work (SOWs), contract negotiations, and supplier relationship management to ensure cost-effective, high-quality procurement solutions that support organizational objectives.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related discipline.
• 7+ years of experience in procurement, commodity management, or supply chain within the aerospace and defense sector.
• Demonstrated expertise in contract negotiation, supplier management, pricing strategies, and risk mitigation.
• Proven ability to develop and evaluate complex SOWs.
• Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and procurement analytics tools.
• In-depth knowledge of ITAR regulations, AS9100 standards, and defense contracting protocols.
• Strong communication, leadership, and analytical problem-solving skills.
• US Person per ITAR regulations and able to comply with export compliance requirements.

Nice To Haves

• APICS or CPM certification
• LEAN or Six Sigma experience
• Comprehensive understanding of the aerospace industry
• Exceptional presentation and interpersonal skills
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain supplier networks with insight into supplier processes
• Proven leadership experience in cross-functional team environments

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement sourcing strategies for indirect materials, services, and capital equipment.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define and refine comprehensive SOWs aligned with operational requirements.
• Lead supplier negotiations to secure favorable pricing, terms, and service levels, while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and mitigating risk.
• Establish and manage supplier relationships to enhance performance, achieve cost savings, and reduce supply chain risks.
• Ensure procurement activities adhere to applicable industry regulations, internal policies, and contractual obligations.
• Identify and assess potential suppliers to ensure alignment with quality, cost, and delivery expectations.
• Monitor market dynamics, geopolitical developments, and supply chain disruptions impacting material availability and pricing.
• Leverage ERP systems and procurement analytics to monitor supplier performance, contract compliance, and project timelines.
• Drive cost reduction initiatives and continuous improvement efforts across sourcing and procurement functions.
• Maintain compliance with ITAR regulations, AS9100 quality standards, and defense contracting requirements.
• Provide mentorship and guidance to junior procurement professionals and commodity managers.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Transportation Equipment Manufacturing
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees