Job Title:  Strategic Buyer

Company Overview: AMETEK Precitech Inc. is a leading global manufacturer of ultra-precision machining solutions serving industries such as aerospace, automotive, medical, and electronics. With a dedicated team of 145 employees based in Keene, NH, as well as internationally, we pride ourselves on being a cornerstone of the small-town community of Keene. Our commitment to excellence and innovation has enabled us to establish ourselves as a trusted partner in delivering precision-engineered solutions to our customers worldwide. Despite our global reach, we maintain close ties to our roots in Keene, fostering a culture of collaboration and community involvement.

Position Overview: The Strategic Buyer will be key in optimizing our supply chain and driving cost-effective procurement strategies. This position reports to the Plant Manager and requires a proactive and analytical mindset and excellent negotiation and communication skills. This position offers a competitive salary and benefits package, and the opportunity to contribute to our procurement strategy and drive value through strategic sourcing initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Develop Sourcing Strategies: Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop sourcing strategies aligned with organizational objectives. Identify opportunities for cost reduction, process improvement, and supplier consolidation while demonstrating cultural sensitivity and considering low-cost regions (LCRs) where applicable.
2. Supplier Identification and Evaluation: Conduct market research to identify potential suppliers and evaluate their capabilities, capacity, and performance, both locally and globally. Utilize cultural sensitivity and LCR experience to assess suitability and alignment with organizational needs.
3. Negotiation and Contract Management: Lead negotiations with suppliers to achieve favorable terms, including pricing, payment terms, and contractual agreements. Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements and manage contract lifecycle from negotiation to execution.
4. Supplier Relationship Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers, fostering collaboration and driving continuous improvement initiatives. Monitor supplier performance and address issues or concerns promptly to ensure alignment with quality, delivery, and service requirements. Experience in manufacturing or engineering roles is a plus in understanding supplier capabilities. Acquire companies to enter new geographical markets or industry sectors where the target company already has a strong presence. This can be more efficient than building a new presence organically.
5. Risk Management: Identify and assess risks related to supply chain disruptions, market volatility, and supplier dependencies. Develop risk mitigation strategies and implement contingency plans to minimize potential impact on operations, considering global and local travel as needed.
6. Cost Optimization: Analyze the total cost of ownership for purchased goods and services, including direct and indirect costs. Identify opportunities for cost savings through process optimization, value engineering, and alternative sourcing strategies. A technical degree is a plus, demonstrating the ability to understand and optimize manufacturing processes.
7. Continuous improvement: Stay up to date on industry trends and best practices in procurement and supply chain management to help eliminate competition, and strengthen our position in the market to increase bargaining power with suppliers and customers.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Supply Chain Management, or related field (technical degree preferred). Master’s degree or professional certification (e.g. CSCP, CPSM) is a plus.
• Minimum 5 years experience in procurement, strategic sourcing, supplier management, or engineering, preferably in the manufacturing or precision machining industry.
• Strong negotiation skills with a proven track record of achieving cost savings and value creation.  
• Ability to read technical drawings and understand manufacturing processes.
• Experience working with suppliers in low-cost regions is highly desirable.
• Ability to effectively collaborate with global suppliers.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and build relationships at all levels of the organization.
• Proficiency in sourcing tools, contract management systems, and ERP software (e.g. SAP, Visual Management).
• Knowledge of legal and regulatory requirements related to procurement and contract management.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Willingness to travel locally and internationally as needed.

Why Join Us:

AMETEK Precitech Inc. offers a dynamic and collaborative work environment where employees are empowered to innovate and drive results. As a global leader in ultra-precision machining solutions, we provide exciting opportunities for professional growth and development. Join our team and be part of a company that is shaping the future of precision engineering.