Procurement Strategy Manager

With Whom You Will CELLebrate

We are proud to announce the launch of Volkswagen Group’s largest cell factory, PowerCo, in St. Thomas. This is more than just a job – it’s a unique opportunity to shape the future of sustainable energy. Join us as we ramp up operations and help build a world-class company.

At PowerCo, we believe in fostering an environment where ambition meets collaboration, and where flexibility and creativity thrive. You'll be part of a diverse, talented team that is shaping the future of battery production. You’ll have the chance to advance your career while working alongside passionate colleagues who share a vision of making a lasting impact on the world.

Are you ready to be part of something exciting? Power up your career with us!

Role Overview

Reporting to the Chief Procurement Officer, you will play a pivotal role in the initial ramp-up phase of our North American operations. We are looking for a passionate Procurement Strategy Manager who thrives in fast-paced and dynamic environments. As part of the ramp-up team, you will work closely with local PowerCo SE team members, our PowerCo SE headquarters in Germany, and colleagues from Volkswagen Group Canada in Ajax, ON.

This role is located in St. Thomas, ON, and involves a hybrid work model with a minimum of 2 days in the office per week.

How You Will CELLebrate

1. Oversee and guide operational purchasing activities, ensuring effective collaboration across the North American region to meet procurement objectives.
2. Manage purchasing initiatives, benchmarking practices, and performance with global VW Group Purchasing colleagues to drive consistency and continuous improvement.
3. Maintain and update the project tracking system for procurement progress, ensuring accessibility for all buyers.
4. Address and resolve purchasing issues proactively, coordinating with functional teams within VWGoA, VWdMx, and VGCA.
5. Coordinate purchasing activities across regions, sharing best practices to enhance efficiency.
6. Organize and facilitate training sessions for buyers on procurement processes and industry best practices.
7. Participate in audits, document procedures, and recommend improvements in purchasing operations.
8. Support strategic initiatives to achieve synergies and improve procurement efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
9. Lead strategic purchasing projects and cost reduction initiatives aligned with organizational goals.
10. Partner with sourcing analysts to support sourcing processes and align procurement strategies with business objectives.
11. Create and present training materials to ensure clarity and consistency in procurement processes.
12. Drive forecasting efforts for collaboration projects, ensuring timely procurement planning.
13. Build and maintain strong relationships with business units and procurement partners to implement cost-effective solutions.
14. Analyze supply base information to inform supplier evaluations and strategic decisions.
15. Manage the supplier registration process, ensuring efficiency and compliance.
16. Ensure all sourcing activities are documented in the VW Group global system “GLOBE”.
17. Optimize electronic approval workflows for timely project approvals.
18. Analyze team workload and project demands, proposing solutions to improve efficiency.

What You Need For Our CELLebration

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Economics, or a related field, or equivalent work experience.
• 7+ years of experience in business strategy, consulting, procurement, or related roles with a proven track record in cost reduction and operational objectives.

What Else Can You Bring

• Leadership in business planning and strategy execution for cost savings and financial commitments.
• Deep understanding of North American and global supplier networks and manufacturing value chains.
• Excellent communication skills with senior leadership, cross-functional teams, and vendors.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to analyze complex data for strategic decisions.
• Capability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines within budget.
• Expertise in financial data analysis and negotiation with suppliers.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office tools.

What To Look Forward To

• Competitive remuneration reflecting your skills and experience.
• Paid vacation, with a holiday break from December 24-31.
• Development opportunities and relocation support.
• Participation in community-focused company events.
• Comprehensive benefits including health, dental, vision, mental health, and pension contributions.
• Flexible hybrid work arrangement, subject to company policy.

We appreciate the interest of all candidates; only those under consideration will be contacted. We are committed to diversity and inclusion and provide accommodations for applicants with disabilities throughout the hiring process.