Operational Buyer - Powertrain and Engine Components

Ford Motor; Chennai; On-site; INR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Job summary

The Operational Buyer for Powertrain & Engine Components at Ford Motor Chennai will manage strategic sourcing for engine, powertrain, and allied commodities, ensuring uninterrupted supply while achieving cost reductions. You will release purchase orders, negotiate engineering changes, and drive supplier performance through data-driven analytics.

You will collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, finance, and supply chain teams to align procurement with production plans, develop capacity

Qualifications

• Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.
• Analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Effective verbal and written communication abilities.

Responsibilities

• Release purchase orders and tool orders to support production.
• Negotiate and implement engineering changes with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
• Support annual cost reduction initiatives and identify cost-saving opportunities.

Skills

Negotiation

Supplier management

Analytical thinking

Communication

Team collaboration

Accountability

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering

Master's Degree in Engineering or MBA

Tools

SAP

ERP systems

Power BI

Job description

Operational Buyer - Powertrain & Engine Components

The Operational Buyer will be responsible for managing various Engine, Powertrain, and allied component commodities. This role requires close collaboration with suppliers and cross-functional teams to ensure uninterrupted supply, achieve cost reduction objectives, and support vehicle and powertrain production requirements. The successful candidate will bring strong sourcing and purchasing expertise, excellent negotiation skills, and a proactive approach to supplier and supply chain management. Release purchase orders and tool orders while meeting all assigned KPI targets. Negotiate and implement engineering changes with suppliers and internal stakeholders. Support annual cost reduction initiatives and identify cost‑saving opportunities. Develop and implement capacity plans to support vehicle and powertrain production demand. Identify and mitigate supply chain risks to ensure continuity of supply. Manage supplier claims and support resolution of obsolescence, warranty recovery, and end-of-program settlements. Build and maintain effective relationships with suppliers and internal teams. Collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, finance, and supply chain teams to support business objectives.

Experience 4-8 years of experience in Strategic Sourcing, Commodity Management, or Operational Purchasing. Automotive industry experience is preferred. Experience managing suppliers, purchasing operations, and cost reduction programs.

Education Bachelor's Degree in Engineering required. Master's Degree in Engineering or MBA preferred.

Technical Skills Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel and PowerPoint. Experience with SAP and other ERP systems. Knowledge of Power BI and data analytics tools. Interest in leveraging AI and automation to improve business processes.

Behavioural Competencies Strong negotiation and supplier management skills. Excellent analytical and problem‑solving capabilities. Effective verbal and written communication skills. Strong collaboration and teamwork orientation. High level of accountability, perseverance, and attention to detail.