Job description
Position Overview
The Head of Procurement will lead the procurement function, focusing on sourcing high-quality materials essential for the manufacturing of cables and wiring harnesses. This role requires an experienced professional with a deep understanding of the industry, capable of optimizing procurement processes, managing supplier relationships, and ensuring the timely availability of critical components.
Additionally, the role includes significant involvement in New Model Development, supplier evaluation, and cost reduction strategies.
Key Responsibilities
Procurement Strategy: Develop and implement procurement strategies specifically tailored to the needs of cable and wiring harness manufacturing, ensuring alignment with the company's overall business objectives. Sourcing & Supplier Management: Source and manage the procurement of key raw materials, including copper, aluminium, PVC, rubber, insulation materials, connectors, terminals, and other related components essential for production.
Lead negotiations with suppliers to secure the best possible terms, focusing on cost-effectiveness, quality, and reliability of supply. Develop a robust supplier base, identifying and qualifying new suppliers to ensure a consistent and competitive supply chain. New Model Development: Coordinate with the CFT (NMD/QA/PT) to align with customer requirements.
Plan for New Model Development, conduct gap analysis, design reviews, cost and quality benchmarking, and ensure quality gates for all customer builds. Facilitate trial runs and commissioning of new models, processes, or products among Tier-2 suppliers in collaboration with Incoming Quality/NMD vehicle build requirements.
Supplier Evaluation & Development: Conduct thorough evaluations of suppliers, including SWOT analysis, to ensure alignment with child part requirements. Manage the Approved Vendor List and demonstrate knowledge of VSA audit and IATF standards. Drive new commodity feasibility, development, and costing in line with customer expectations.
Cost Reduction & Localization: Finalize annual budgets for New Model developed parts, especially from North-based suppliers. Explore localization of BOP/Tooling’s/commodities and alternate sourcing opportunities to drive cost reduction. Improve yield in vendor processes through effective management. Inventory & Market Monitoring: Oversee inventory management to ensure optimal stock levels of raw materials and components, balancing cost efficiency with production requirements.
Monitor market trends and changes in material costs, adjusting procurement strategies to mitigate risks and capitalize on opportunities. Compliance & Safety: Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, standards, and company policies related to procurement, particularly in areas concerning environmental and safety regulations.
Implement safety practices, conduct safety audits with vendors, and ensure adherence to safety norms at all Tier-2 suppliers. Team Leadership: Provide leadership and direction to the procurement team, fostering a culture of high performance, collaboration, and professional development. Drive continuous improvement in procurement processes, leveraging technology and best practices to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
Requirements
Education
Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field. Experience: Minimum of 15 years of procurement experience in manufacturing, with at least 5 years in a leadership role within the cable and wiring harness industry or a closely related field. Skills Required: Strong understanding of materials and components used in cable and wiring harness manufacturing.
Proven track record in strategic sourcing, supplier negotiation, and contract management. Expertise in new model development, supplier evaluation, and cost reduction strategies. Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills. Proficiency in procurement software and tools. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
High level of integrity and commitment to ethical procurement practices.