Purchasing Operations Buyer

Buyer – Purchasing Operations

This role supports Ford North America (FNA) operations by managing end‑to‑end purchasing activities, including purchase orders, tool orders, and price adjustments. The Buyer works closely with regional suppliers, cross‑functional stakeholders, and Joint Venture (JV) partners to mitigate supply risks, support cost targets, and ensure smooth plant operations.

The position requires strong negotiation skills, analytical capability, and the ability to work across global time zones, including late‑night shifts, to support regional business needs.

• Execute Purchase Orders (POs) and Tool Orders (TOs) in line with demand, engineering changes, and capacity requirements.
• Validate supplier quotations and negotiate optimal pricing for design changes and capacity increases.
• Ensure uninterrupted supply to Ford plants and proactively mitigate supply risks.
• Adhere to defined turnaround times (TAT) for purchasing activities.
• Identify and deliver cost‑saving opportunities to support Target/Total Value Management (TVM) objectives.
• Ensure 100% compliance with Ford purchasing policies, procedures, and audit requirements.
• Collaborate effectively with regional suppliers, cross‑functional teams, and JV partners.

• Support strategy development for assigned commodities and suppliers.

   

   

  Required Skills & Competencies

• Strong negotiation and commercial skills
• Experience with ERP systems (SAP, Ariba or equivalent)
• Solid commodity and supplier management knowledge
• Ability to develop and execute purchasing strategies
• Analytical skills including part cost estimation
• Understanding of lean manufacturing principles
• Excellent stakeholder and supplier relationship management
• Strong project management and execution skills
• Flexibility to work across global time zones, including late‑night shifts
  

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (or equivalent)
• Experience: 5–8 years of relevant purchasing/buying experience
  (Automotive industry experience preferred)

Experience Level

Mid Level