Detailed Description
The NPI Buying Team Leader will be responsible for the strategic sourcing of materials and components required for new product development projects. This role demands a proactive approach to supplier selection, cost negotiation, and risk management to ensure project deliverables are meet within the required timelines and budgets. The ideal candidate will possess a blend of technical and commercial acumen, with a deep understanding of the procurement process in a fast-paced product development environment.
Performs tasks such as, but not limited to, the following:
- Responsible on the NPI projects assigned, take accountability for all part listed in CTB and resolve critical clear to build shortages.
- Daily clear to build review with planning to share material status and dial in the meeting call whenever requested by MP/PM
- Work out assessment RFQ and planning to procure materials necessary to meet manufacturing build requirements for one or several NPI projects
- Conduct comprehensive market research to identify potential suppliers. Evaluate suppliers based on their capabilities, quality, cost, and delivery performance to support new product launches.
- Identify potential supply chain risks related to NPI projects and develop contingency plans to address these risks.
- Collaborate closely with R&D, engineering, quality assurance, and manufacturing teams to ensure alignment between procurement strategies and project requirements.
- Participate in design reviews to understand material specifications and technical requirements. Aligned on the ECO changes related parts for PO supersede and rework activities.
- Implement strategies to optimize the supply chain for NPI projects, focusing on lead time reduction, inventory management, and logistic efficiency.
- Manage and track the procurement process for NPI projects, ensuring timely updates and communication with stakeholders. Resolve any issues or delays in the supply chain that may impact project timelines.
- Ensures materials are available to meet manufacturing build requirements. Matches material requirements and inventory turnover so as not to hold too high of a percentage of inventory at any time.
- Assist engineering and planning to work with supplier on the rework activities to reduce E&O inventory
- Works with AP to investigate and resolve issues with the payment of supplier invoices.
- Works with the Engineering Team on the SRA related issue and cascade down the information to relevant team on timely manner
- Ensure all supplier follow the shipment approval process.
Knowledge/Skills/Competencies
- Knowledge of the manufacturing environment, procurement processes, inventory management, supplier management the types of materials being purchased by departments, and the engineering change process is preferred.
- Basic knowledge of production planning fundamentals, scheduling, materials requirements planning techniques, and manufacturing control systems
- Demonstrated ability to negotiate effectively and manage complex supplier relationships.
- Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously under tight deadlines.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a strong focus on detail and accuracy.
- Proficient in using procurement software, ERP systems, and MS Office Suite. Relevant experience with ERP / MRP especially in SAP will be an added advantage.
- Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, capable of working collaboratively across various departments and with external partners.
- Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with a wide variety of internal and external customers.
- Knowledge of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or similar continuous improvement methodologies is a plus.
Typical Experience & Education
- Minimum of 7 years experience in procurement or buying role, with specific experience in NPI procurement in a manufacturing or technology environment.
- Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Engineering, or a related field.
