Global Procurement Strategist
Location:
On-site, Aurora, IL
Industry:
Manufacturing, Technology, Supply Chain
A dynamic and well-established manufacturer in the communications and electronics space is seeking a Global Procurement Strategist to lead critical sourcing initiatives spanning international and domestic suppliers. This role offers a unique opportunity to own procurement operations, impact production continuity, and directly contribute to supply chain excellence within a collaborative, results-driven environment.
The Global Procurement Strategist will play a key strategic role in reducing costs, enhancing supplier partnerships, and optimizing inventory levels across a complex supply network. This is an ideal fit for someone passionate about procurement strategy, supplier performance, and cross-functional collaboration.
Key Responsibilities: Lead sourcing activities across a global supplier base, ensuring seamless alignment with production and customer delivery timelines. Develop and execute RFQs, negotiate supplier agreements, and select vendors based on cost, quality, capacity, and reliability. Address performance gaps with suppliers, tracking and reporting on delivery timelines, quality metrics, and cost targets. Maintain inventory levels that support operational continuity without excess capital tie-up. Partner cross-functionally with engineering, operations, finance, and commercial teams to align procurement strategies with business goals. Monitor global market trends, commodity pricing, and risk indicators to inform proactive sourcing decisions. Lead long-term pricing negotiations for key commodities to support cost control and margin protection. Ensure trade compliance and accuracy in material classification (HTS codes), and maintain adherence to internal procurement policies. Keep procurement systems (SAP and related tools) up to date with accurate vendor and purchasing data. Continuously assess supply chain risks and implement contingency plans to mitigate disruptions. Required Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in business, Supply Chain, Engineering, or related field, or equivalent professional experience. Over 5 years of experience in sourcing and procurement within a production setting, ideally with a diverse product portfolio and variable-to-moderate production runs. Strong background in metal fabrication sourcing and electronics/PCB component procurement. Experience managing international suppliers and negotiating contracts for complex assemblies and custom materials. Proficiency with MRP/ERP systems, with SAP experience strongly preferred. Advanced negotiation, analytical, and supplier relationship management skills. Familiarity with PLM systems (Oracle Agile is a plus). Proficient in Microsoft Office tools and comfortable analyzing data to drive strategic decisions. What's In It for You:
High-visibility role reporting to executive leadership with direct influence on supply chain and cost outcomes. Collaborative work culture in a fast-paced, customer-focused manufacturing setting. Opportunity to lead sourcing innovation and process improvement. Hands-on involvement with products supporting global communications infrastructure.
About Blue Signal:
Blue Signal is an award-winning, executive search firm specializing in various specialties. Our recruiters have a proven track record of placing top-tier talent across industry verticals, with deep expertise in numerous professional services. Learn more at
bit.ly/46Gs4yS
Location:
On-site, Aurora, IL
Industry:
Manufacturing, Technology, Supply Chain
A dynamic and well-established manufacturer in the communications and electronics space is seeking a Global Procurement Strategist to lead critical sourcing initiatives spanning international and domestic suppliers. This role offers a unique opportunity to own procurement operations, impact production continuity, and directly contribute to supply chain excellence within a collaborative, results-driven environment.
The Global Procurement Strategist will play a key strategic role in reducing costs, enhancing supplier partnerships, and optimizing inventory levels across a complex supply network. This is an ideal fit for someone passionate about procurement strategy, supplier performance, and cross-functional collaboration.
Key Responsibilities: Lead sourcing activities across a global supplier base, ensuring seamless alignment with production and customer delivery timelines. Develop and execute RFQs, negotiate supplier agreements, and select vendors based on cost, quality, capacity, and reliability. Address performance gaps with suppliers, tracking and reporting on delivery timelines, quality metrics, and cost targets. Maintain inventory levels that support operational continuity without excess capital tie-up. Partner cross-functionally with engineering, operations, finance, and commercial teams to align procurement strategies with business goals. Monitor global market trends, commodity pricing, and risk indicators to inform proactive sourcing decisions. Lead long-term pricing negotiations for key commodities to support cost control and margin protection. Ensure trade compliance and accuracy in material classification (HTS codes), and maintain adherence to internal procurement policies. Keep procurement systems (SAP and related tools) up to date with accurate vendor and purchasing data. Continuously assess supply chain risks and implement contingency plans to mitigate disruptions. Required Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in business, Supply Chain, Engineering, or related field, or equivalent professional experience. Over 5 years of experience in sourcing and procurement within a production setting, ideally with a diverse product portfolio and variable-to-moderate production runs. Strong background in metal fabrication sourcing and electronics/PCB component procurement. Experience managing international suppliers and negotiating contracts for complex assemblies and custom materials. Proficiency with MRP/ERP systems, with SAP experience strongly preferred. Advanced negotiation, analytical, and supplier relationship management skills. Familiarity with PLM systems (Oracle Agile is a plus). Proficient in Microsoft Office tools and comfortable analyzing data to drive strategic decisions. What's In It for You:
High-visibility role reporting to executive leadership with direct influence on supply chain and cost outcomes. Collaborative work culture in a fast-paced, customer-focused manufacturing setting. Opportunity to lead sourcing innovation and process improvement. Hands-on involvement with products supporting global communications infrastructure.
About Blue Signal:
Blue Signal is an award-winning, executive search firm specializing in various specialties. Our recruiters have a proven track record of placing top-tier talent across industry verticals, with deep expertise in numerous professional services. Learn more at
bit.ly/46Gs4yS