Purchasing - Software Manager

Just like a bridge, our mission in purchasing is to connect internal and external partners to deliver world class results. We build our bridge together on solid foundational values. Our global purchasing team sources over $80 billion in products and services annually. We deliver world class results by embracing our values of Belief, Respect, Innovation, Diversity, Growth, and Energy (BRIDGE) as they are the framework for our culture. We believe in a work-life balance and provide team members opportunities for mentoring, learning & development and exposure to senior leadership.

The Software Purchasing Manager has the responsibility for leading the development and execution of long-term, comprehensive and cross-functional global commodity strategies that will yield measurable improvements in the areas of technology, innovation, quality, vehicle performance, on-time delivery and cost optimization. He/she will be responsible for software commodities such as navigation, Audio/Video, voice assitant, Over-the-Air (OTA), Service Delivery Platforms, Infotainment, Base / Platform Software, Operating Systems (OS), and Mobile Applications.

This Manager must be able to work strategically with our global supply base and promote the development of their direct reports. He/she must also be able to successfully manage and execute both strategic and tactical level decisions and initiatives.

Key Responsibilities include but not limited to:

• Lead the purchasing strategy for Software, ensuring cost-effective and high-quality, strategic sourcing
• Develop and maintain strong supplier relationships, negotiating contracts to optimize cost, quality, and delivery
• Lead and mentor a cross-functional Purchasing team, ensuring alignment with the company's goals
• Work closely with global and regional suppliers to enhance supply chain resilience
• Work with Engineering, Supplier Quality, Cost Engineering, Finance, Supply Chain and Manufacturing teams to align purchasing activities with vehicle development
• Oversee budget planning and cost tracking for purchasing activities
• Support cost-reduction initiatives, improving efficiency across sourcing and procurement processes
• Work with manufacturing and quality teams to address supplier quality concerns and implement corrective actions
• Support business development to increase customer satisfaction and increase revenue within Software

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited university in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Business, Finance, or related discipline
• 10+ years of experience in Purchasing and/or engineering and/or Supply, with a preference for Direct Material Purchasing experience
• Excellent negotiation skills, strong analytical skills, and experience in working in cross-functional teams. Ability to resolve conflict situations
• Proven experience managing and negotiating contracts and have a strong understanding of contract law
• Effective listener and ability to build relationships in cross functional groups and with global counterparts
• Ability to coach, manage, and motivate both the buyers and the supply base, and drive timely resolution of open issues
• Proven ability to manage people and lead teams
• Ability to cultivate internal and external relationships and earning trust
• Demonstrated the ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced and quickly changing environment
• Excellent planning and time management skills
• Proven leader with the ability to inspire others and build strong relationships

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's degree in business administration
• Strong project management and organizational skills
• Excellent negotiation and communication abilities
• Proficiency in sourcing strategies and supplier management
• Ability to analyze data and generate actionable insights
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
• Leadership: Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams, mentor/coach a diverse team of varied seniority and drive project success
• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a proactive approach to addressing challenges
• Adaptability: Ability to thrive in a dynamic environment and manage multiple projects simultaneously