Description:
About Innotec
Innotec, headquartered in Zeeland, Michigan, is a global, highly automated manufacturing company serving automotive, recreation, lawn & turf, and industrial markets. We deliver innovative, high-quality solutions—including advanced LED lighting—while maintaining a strong commitment to performance and sustainability. Our culture is built on ownership, collaboration, and continuous improvement, empowering employees to make an impact and grow their careers.
The Senior Buyer / Head of Purchasing / Sourcing Strategist is responsible for leading sourcing strategy, supplier management, and purchasing operations across a diverse manufacturing environment, including LED lighting, plastic injection molding, and metal fabrication.
This is a strategic and operational leadership role that ensures material availability, cost competitiveness, and supplier performance while building a resilient and high-performing supply base. The role directly impacts production continuity, profitability, and customer satisfaction by aligning sourcing decisions with overall business objectives.
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Develop and execute sourcing strategies across key commodities (resins, electronics, metals, components)
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Identify, qualify, and develop high-performing suppliers (domestic and global)
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Lead supplier negotiations, contracts, and long-term agreements
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Drive cost reduction initiatives through negotiation, VA/VE, and process improvements
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Monitor market trends and adjust sourcing strategies accordingly
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Oversee purchasing execution, including PO placement, tracking, and supplier communication
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Ensure alignment between production schedules and material supply
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Resolve supply disruptions quickly to maintain production continuity
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Establish and track supplier KPIs (quality, delivery, cost, responsiveness)
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Lead supplier reviews, performance management, and corrective actions
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Collaborate cross-functionally with Engineering, Production, Quality, and Finance
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Support new product launches with sourcing strategy and supplier readiness
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Lead and develop purchasing team members (if applicable) and establish standard work
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Drive supply risk mitigation strategies, including dual sourcing
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Participate in S&OP and planning discussions to align supply with demand
Opportunity for Growth
This role offers the opportunity to:
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Influence company-wide strategy
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Build and shape the supplier network
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Lead continuous improvement initiatives
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Grow into broader operational or executive leadership roles
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or related field required
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5–10+ years of experience in purchasing, sourcing, or supply chain within a manufacturing environment
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Experience supporting industries such as automotive, electronics, plastics, or metal fabrication preferred
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Proven experience in supplier negotiations, contract management, and cost reduction initiatives
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Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems and purchasing processes
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Knowledge of supply chain best practices, sourcing strategies, and market analysis
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Experience with new product launch support and supplier development
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APICS / CPSM or similar certification
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Experience working with global suppliers
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Must be authorized to work in the United States without current or future visa sponsorship
Skills & Competencies
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Strategic thinking with strong execution and follow-through
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Strong negotiation and supplier management skills
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Data-driven decision-making and analytical capability
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Ability to balance cost, quality, and delivery priorities
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Effective cross-functional collaboration and communication
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Leadership skills with ability to develop teams and influence without authority
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Problem-solving mindset with focus on risk mitigation and continuity
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High level of ownership, accountability, and integrity
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Continuous improvement mindset with focus on long-term impact
