Global Category Strategist – Sourcing & Cost Optimization

Dauch; Detroit (MI); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Dauch Corporation in Detroit, MI is seeking a Lead Category Management Strategist to own global category strategy and drive end-to-end strategic sourcing across our worldwide footprint.

You will lead executive reviews, forecast markets, and push cost-down initiatives while ensuring quality, delivery, and alignment with Tier 1 standards across all facilities; collaboration with engineering, manufacturing, and finance teams is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required, preferred major in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, or other related field.
• 10+ years previous purchasing or related manufacturing experience preferred.
• Thorough knowledge of industry purchasing policies, procedures, and commercial practices.
• Understanding of global sourcing, landed cost, and supply chain risk management.
• Strong negotiation skills with a history of cost savings and supplier performance improvement.
• Proficiency in ERP systems (Oracle / Plex Preferred) and data analytics tools.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the global category owner and SME in front of executive leadership with cost-down strategies.
• Lead the strategic sourcing process including RFQs, bid evaluation, cost breakdown analysis, negotiation, supplier evaluation, sourcing recommendation, and contracting.
• Execute the Global Strategy with the approved supply base, consolidating strategic suppliers while reducing costs and maintaining quality.
• Collaborate on sourcing strategies for new business programs to ensure timely supplier readiness.
• Analyze supplier cost structures and market trends to identify opportunities for cost reductions.
• Lead cost reduction and VAVE activities to improve competitiveness and meet budget targets.
• Develop and manage relationships with key suppliers to ensure quality and on-time delivery.
• Work with engineering, manufacturing, and finance to align procurement strategies with objectives.

Skills

Negotiation skills

Global sourcing

Data analytics

Risk management

Cross-functional collaboration

Category management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management or related field

Tools

Oracle ERP

Plex ERP

Data analytics tools

Job description

Dauch Corporation in Detroit, MI is seeking a Lead Category Management Strategist to own global category strategy and drive end-to-end strategic sourcing across our worldwide footprint.

You will lead executive reviews, forecast markets, and push cost-down initiatives while ensuring quality, delivery, and alignment with Tier 1 standards across all facilities; collaboration with engineering, manufacturing, and finance teams is essential.