Auxiliaries & Services Purchasing Buyer – USA (Homer / Plymouth (one day a wk in Homer, MI)
Role Summary
The position is responsible for managing a defined group of Auxiliaries & Services sub-categories for the Homer, MI plant. The role operates in a fast-paced, highly demanding manufacturing environment and requires a high level of autonomy, ownership, and professional maturity.
The candidate will:
- Own the purchasing activities for assigned Auxiliaries & Services sub-categories, ensuring continuity of supply, cost competitiveness, quality, and service.
- Work in close coordination with Global Purchasing, Plant Operations, Quality, Logistics, and Finance.
- Develop and implement sourcing strategies aligned with plant needs and global guidelines.
- Build, manage, and continuously develop a robust supplier base in the USA in line with direction from the Auxiliary & Services Coordinator and Global Commodity Management.
- Identify sourcing risks and opportunities, proactively proposing mitigation and improvement actions.
- Operate with regular exposure to plant and purchasing leadership, requiring confidence in decision-making and communication.
Professional Qualifications & Experience
- 5–8 years of solid experience in MRO / Auxiliaries & Services purchasing within complex and structured purchasing organizations.
- Experience in automotive or similarly demanding industrial environments.
- Strong understanding of purchasing best practices, sourcing strategies, and supplier management.
- Proven ability to work effectively in global and cross-functional organizations.
- Demonstrated experience operating under pressure and managing multiple priorities simultaneously.
Education / Languages
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Manufacturing, Finance, Business, or a related field.
- Knowledge of additional languages is considered a plus.
Personal Attributes
- Strong negotiation, influencing, and communication skills.
- High level of autonomy and accountability.
- Ability to handle direct, challenging discussions with stakeholders while maintaining confidence and professionalism.
- Results-driven mindset with strong problem-solving capabilities.
- Ability to build and maintain effective relationships with internal stakeholders and suppliers.
- Resilience, tenacity, and comfort operating in a fast-paced, performance-driven environment.
- Strong sense of ownership and team collaboration.
