Strategic Sourcing Buyer

Ag Express Electronics is seeking a Strategic Sourcing Buyer who will be responsible for developing, implementing, and managing sourcing strategies that deliver long-term value and sustainability to the organization. This role focuses on supplier relationship management, cost optimization, risk mitigation, and ensuring continuity of supply for critical materials, components, or services. The Strategic Sourcing Buyer works cross-functionally with Engineering, Operations, Finance, and Quality to align procurement strategies with business goals.

This position is located at our Des Moines, Iowa location.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Sourcing

• Lead comprehensive sourcing initiatives by identifying, evaluating, and selecting suppliers based on total cost, quality, delivery performance, capacity, risk profile, and innovation capabilities.
• Conduct market analysis, competitive benchmarking, and supplier assessments to develop long-term category strategies aligned with business objectives.

Contract Negotiation

• Lead supplier negotiations covering pricing, payment terms, lead times, service levels, and contractual terms and conditions to secure optimal value while mitigating risk and protecting company interests.
• Collaborate with Finance to ensure contract compliance and enforceability.

Supplier Relationship Management:

• Establish and cultivate strategic supplier partnerships to enhance collaboration, performance, and continuous improvement.
• Conduct supplier and business reviews and lead corrective action plans to ensure adherence to quality, cost, and delivery expectations.

Cost Management & Value Improvement

• Develop and execute cost-reduction initiatives through spend analysis, value engineering, cost modeling, demand consolidation, and process optimization.
• Identify and implement value-improvement initiatives that improve margins without compromising quality or supply continuity.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with internal teams to support new production introductions, engineering changes, product obsolescence, and production schedules.

• Ensure sourcing strategies align with company-wide operational needs and business timelines.

Required Skills and Qualifications:

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent negotiation and vendor management skills.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and adept at prioritizing in a fast-paced environment.
• High attention to detail with a focus on data integrity and accuracy.
• Professionalism, discretion, and ethical integrity in handling sensitive data.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills with stakeholder management abilities.
• Strategic mindset with a hands-on, results-driven approach.

Required Experience/Education/Training/Certifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, or a related field.
• Work Experience: 3-7 years of experience in strategic sourcing, procurement, or supply chain management, preferably in a manufacturing environment.
• Computer Skills: Proficiency in utilizing ERP and procurement systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, or NetSuite).

Physical Demands:

• Lifting and Carrying: Occasionally, the role may involve lifting and carrying office equipment or materials weighing up to a certain limit.   
• Standing and Walking: Ability to navigate various onsite meetings with customers and facilities within the organization’s premises.

• Communication: Skill in exchanging accurate information with customers, co-workers, vendors, etc., utilizing verbal, written, and electronic communication methods.   

• Sitting for Extended Periods: Much of the work will be conducted at a desk requiring the ability to sit for extended periods while performing tasks.   

• Repetitive Motion: Some tasks may involve repetitive motions of the hands, especially prolonged periods of typing on a computer to perform administrative and operational tasks. Ergonomic practices should be followed to minimize the risk of repetitive strain injuries.   

• Safety Awareness: Awareness of and adherence to safety protocols and procedures is essential when navigating the organization’s facilities to ensure compliance and minimize the risk of workplace hazards or accidents.   

Ag Express Electronics is committed to providing reasonable accommodation for employees with disabilities and ensuring a supportive work environment. Candidates are encouraged to discuss specific needs during the application process.

Benefits:

Ag Express Electronics offers a leading benefits package as highlighted below:

• Employer-Sponsored Benefits: Medical, Dental, Group Life, Short-Term Disability (STD) with buy-up options
• Voluntary Benefits: Vision, Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account(s) (FSA), Life Insurance
• 401(k): Safe Harbor 401(k) including an annual 3% company contribution and Profit Share funded annually at the discretion of Ag Express Electronics.
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP): Contribution funded annually at the discretion of Ag Express Electronics.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): PTO allowance to support work-life balance and provide employees with opportunities for rest, relaxation, and personal pursuits.
• Holiday Benefits: Recognition and observance of holidays by Ag Express Electronics, allowing employees to celebrate.
• Flexible Hours: Flexible work hours empower employees to have greater control over their work schedules, fostering a better work-life balance and increased flexibility to accommodate personal commitments.
• Educational Assistance: Support for employee development through educational assistance, including financial support for further education or professional certifications relevant to their roles, ensuring continuous learning and growth opportunities.
• Casual Dress Environment: Enjoy a casual dress environment at work, with company-provided branded clothing to promote comfort and a sense of belonging among employees.

Ag Express Electronics is an Equal Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, sex, gender, identity, sexual orientation, age, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law.

About Us:

Ag Express Electronics is a leading provider of innovative electrical solutions for agricultural, construction, and industrial applications. We specialize in designing custom electrical harnesses and distribution systems to meet the unique needs of our clients. Our team is dedicated to delivering high-quality, reliable, and efficient solutions that exceed customer expectations.