Assistant Manager - Strategic Sourcing and Purchasing

ZF Friedrichshafen; Chennai; On-site; INR 2,500,000 - 4,000,000; Full time

Job summary

ZF Commercial Vehicle Control Systems India Limited in Chennai is seeking an Assistant Manager - Buyer to lead strategic sourcing for HPDC aluminium castings used in passenger car components. You will shape supplier strategies, manage key vendors in India, and drive negotiations on pricing, tooling, and logistics.

The role requires a mechanical engineering degree, an MBA preferred, and 10–12 years in automotive purchasing.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical engineering.
• MBA in Supply Chain Management or Operations is preferred.
• 10–12 years of experience in automotive purchasing or strategic sourcing.
• Experience sourcing HPDC castings for passenger car components such as Oil pan, Transmission housings, Centering plate, Piston, Manifold & Cover.
• Strong knowledge of HPDC casting manufacturing processes, including machining.
• Knowledge of cost breakdown, should-cost analysis, VA/VE, and total cost of ownership.
• Understanding of casting defects, metallurgy, APQP, PPAP, PFMEA, control plans, and IATF 16949 requirements.

Responsibilities

• Manage strategic sourcing activities for Aluminium (HPDC) Casting commodities.
• Develop and implement sourcing and supplier strategies to support business objectives.
• Handle supplier relationships and act as the champion for key strategic suppliers in India.
• Lead commercial negotiations for pricing, tooling costs, logistics costs, and long-term agreements.
• Achieve annual cost savings targets and manage the impact of raw material price fluctuations.
• Support part family strategy and execute sourcing for export programs.
• Identify, evaluate, develop, and onboard new suppliers.

Skills

Automotive purchasing

Strategic sourcing

Negotiation

Cost breakdown/Should-cost

Total cost of ownership

VA/VE

Supplier relationship management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical engineering

MBA in Supply Chain Management or Operations

Job description

Assistant Manager - Buyer Req ID 92281 | Chennai, India, ZF Commercial Vehicle Control Systems India Limited Job Description

About the team:

ZF's Commercial Vehicle Solutions (CVS) division helps shaping the future of commercial transportation ecosystems. Our mission is to be the preferred global technology partner for the commercial vehicle industry. CVS Division is supported by approximately 25,000 employees working at 61 locations in 28 countries.

What you can look forward to as Assistant Manager - Buyer (m/f/d):

• Manage strategic sourcing activities for Aluminium (HPDC) Casting commodities.
• Develop and implement sourcing and supplier strategies to support business objectives.
• Handle supplier relationships and act as the champion for key strategic suppliers in India.
• Lead commercial negotiations for pricing, tooling costs, logistics costs, and long-term agreements.
• Achieve annual cost savings targets and manage the impact of raw material price fluctuations.
• Support part family strategy and execute sourcing for export programs.
• Identify, evaluate, develop, and onboard new suppliers.

Your Profile as Assistant Manager - Buyer (m/f/d):

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical engineering.
• MBA in Supply Chain Management or Operations is preferred.
• 10–12 years of experience in automotive purchasing or strategic sourcing.
• Experience sourcing HPDC castings for passenger car components such as Oil pan, Transmission housings, Centering plate, Piston, Manifold & Cover.
• Strong knowledge of HPDC casting manufacturing processes, including machining.
• Knowledge of cost breakdown, should-cost analysis, VA/VE, and total cost of ownership.
• Understanding of casting defects, metallurgy, APQP, PPAP, PFMEA, control plans, and IATF 16949 requirements.

Why you should choose ZF in India:

• Innovative Environment: ZF is at the forefront of technological advancements, offering a dynamic and innovative work environment that encourages creativity and growth.
• Diverse and Inclusive Culture: ZF fosters a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees are valued and respected, promoting a culture of collaboration and mutual support.
• Career Development: ZF is committed to the professional growth of its employees, offering extensive training programs, career development opportunities, and a clear path for advancement.
• Global Presence: As a part of a global leader in driveline and chassis technology, ZF provides opportunities to work on international projects and collaborate with teams worldwide.
• Sustainability Focus: ZF is dedicated to sustainability and environmental responsibility, actively working towards creating eco-friendly solutions and reducing its carbon footprint.
• Employee Well-being: ZF prioritizes the well-being of its employees, providing comprehensive health and wellness programs, flexible work arrangements, and a supportive work-life balance.