Buyer - Head Restraints & Armrests

Ford Ford · Auto · Dearborn, MI +1 · Supply Chain

This role is for a Buyer responsible for managing the cost, quality, delivery, and resiliency of the Head Restraints and Armrest supply chain within Ford. The buyer will execute sourcing strategies, manage supplier relationships, and identify cost reduction opportunities throughout the program lifecycle.

What you'd actually do

  1. Manage cost, quality, and material efficiencies (Total Value Management) over program lifetime.
  2. Understand and set cost savings goals annually to identify pure commercial leverage versus design efficiencies and end-to-end supply chain improvements.
  3. Work with the strategic Category Manager and Product Development to understand latest supply base footprint, financial health ratings, technologies, and trends.
  4. Maximize quality integration of tier 2 components into final seat assembly.
  5. Analyze market supply/demand balances and deficit risks.

Skills

Required

  • Bachelors Degree in Business, Supply Chain, Finance, Accounting, Engineering or other related field
  • Minimum 3 years of automotive purchasing experience.
  • Proficiency in Purchasing systems and procedures.

Nice to have

  • Extremely high energy with a relentless pursuit of learning and development to drive commodity expertise.
  • Ability to influence senior executives to drive decision-making.
  • Ability to develop and successfully execute negotiations strategy.
  • Familiarity with manufacturing processes a plus.
  • Strong analytical skills
  • Big Picture / Strategic Mindset
  • Creative thinker and problem solver.
  • Strong negotiation skills
  • Persuasive and convincing communication skills

What the JD emphasized

  • Must be data driven and able to analyze multiple potential scenarios / business plans
  • Must be able to drive the future of the commodity
  • Must be a self-starter/ motivated and be able to work both independently as well as in a team setting