Sr. Category Purchasing Manager
Yazaki is a global leader in the research, development and delivery of vehicle power and data solutions.
Yazaki works with virtually every major auto manufacturer in the world, and we've strived to maintain strategic and stable growth throughout our 83-year history. Today, we're on the lookout for energetic people with the potential to perform, as well as the ability to strengthen - and thrive in - the positive work environment we pride ourselves on.
Location: Canton, MI, USA
What we are looking for:
Yazaki is seeking a Sr. Category Purchasing Manager to join our Purchasing team in Canton, MI. The ideal candidate will enjoy working in a collaborative and action-driven environment, making lasting impacts on the organization. This position is hybrid.
What you will be doing:
- Category and Program Management: Provide category and program management expertise for products and services, ensuring they meet cost and timing targets. Develop, maintain, and execute a comprehensive category strategy. Take the lead in defining cost reduction objectives and collaborate with suppliers, core functions, and business units across regions to formulate effective strategies. Conduct market tests and negotiate cost control measures to sustain cost competitiveness.
- Cost Management: Process in-depth knowledge of the category and a thorough understanding of cost drivers to meet cost targets effectively. Oversee the selection and sourcing of suppliers as a key part of the strategic supply base, aligning with functional or business unit commitments and requirements. Manage supplier performance in alignment with QCDE (Quality, Cost, Delivery, Environment) criteria to attain overall targets and objectives. Ensure meticulous compliance with all documentation requirements, including NDA, supplier contracts, pricing sheets, etc.
- Global Collaboration and Leadership: Support global and regional buyers in resolving operational issues necessitating global leadership engagement. Play an integral role in achieving global cost improvement initiatives by formulating sourcing strategies presented during sourcing meetings.
What you will bring to the table:
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent related experience
- 7 to 10 years of indirect purchasing and supervisor experience
- Bilingual English/Spanish, required
- A minimum of 5 years of experience with negotiating contracts and developing cost structures
- Approximately 40% local, regional, and international travel
- Ability to resolve issues by applying creative thinking
- Ability to think and act logically under pressure
- Ability to resolve issues or propose resolutions to responsible parties
- Must work independently and collaboratively
- Key Competencies: active learning, analytical thinking and problem-solving, customer orientation, results orientation and execution, initiative, and teamwork
What we can provide you:
- A safe, collaborative learning work environment that stimulates creativity and exploration
- Diverse teams of experts
- Resources from around the globe
- Supportive leadership and team members to help you do your best work
- Opportunities for professional growth
- Competitive compensation and benefits package including incentive compensation, 401K match, tuition assistance, and a generous holiday schedule
- A hybrid work schedule
Yazaki North America is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all persons regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, marital status, national origin, disability, handicap, veteran status, or other legally protected status or characteristic. Equal opportunity extends to all aspects of the employment relationship. Yazaki North America complies with federal and state equal employment opportunity laws and strives to keep the workplace free from all forms of harassment.