Project Buyer (Level III) in Clinton, Tennessee at SL Tennessee

• This position is responsible for strategic sourcing and development purchasing activities supporting new product development programs in the automotive industry.

  The role focuses on supplier sourcing, cost competitiveness, and supplier engagement during the product development phase, ensuring that selected suppliers meet program timing, quality, and cost targets.

  This position requires strong knowledge of automotive development processes, supplier sourcing, and commercial negotiations.

• Lead strategic sourcing activities for new product development programs, including supplier identification, RFQ issuance, supplier evaluation, and sourcing recommendation.
• Identify and develop new suppliers with competitive technologies, manufacturing capabilities, and cost structures.
• Work closely with engineering, program management, and quality teams during the product development phase to support sourcing decisions.
• Lead commercial negotiations with suppliers, including pricing, tooling costs, and commercial terms, to ensure competitive program cost targets.
• Conduct cost analysis and benchmarking to support sourcing strategies and negotiation activities.
• Support supplier development and supplier capability assessment during the sourcing phase.
• Manage supplier engagement throughout program development and launch phases, ensuring alignment with program timing and requirements.
• Provide sourcing recommendations based on technical capability, cost competitiveness, supplier capacity, and program timing.
• Maintain strong communication with suppliers regarding design changes, development schedules, and commercial topics.

Work Experience

• Minimum 4–6 years of experience in automotive purchasing or strategic sourcing.
• Proven experience in development purchasing or new program sourcing.
• Experience in supplier sourcing and supplier identification.
• Hands-on experience in supplier cost negotiations

Education

• College degree required in relevant field. Master’s degree preferable.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Strong understanding of automotive product development processes.
• Experience managing RFQ processes and supplier selection.
• Strong negotiation and commercial management skills.
• Ability to analyze cost structures and supplier quotations.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work with cross-functional teams.
• Ability to manage multiple suppliers and development activities simultaneously.