Global Procurement Chief, Direct Materials Strategy

knowles; Itasca (IL); On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Knowles is seeking a Global Procurement Director to lead the direct materials sourcing strategy across NA, Mexico, and Asia. You will build a resilient supply base, optimize total cost of ownership, and drive supplier performance across manufacturing sites.

You will partner with Operations, Engineering, Quality, Finance and Product Management to ensure continuity of supply, negotiate long-term contracts, and lead a high-performing procurement organization globally. On-site in Itasca, IL.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, engineering, business, or related field.
• MBA or other advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum 12 years of progressive procurement or supply chain experience in manufacturing.
• Minimum 5 years leading global procurement or category management.
• Experience managing direct material categories in industrial settings.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for a global procurement organization.
• Develop and implement global direct material sourcing strategies.
• Lead executive-level supplier reviews and governance.
• Negotiate long-term supply agreements and pricing terms.
• Manage supply continuity, risk, and contingency plans.
• Drive cost improvements, working capital, and KPI reporting.

Skills

Global Category Management

Strategic Sourcing

Supplier Relationship Management

Contract Negotiation

Leadership

Supply Chain

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Business Administration

MBA or advanced degree preferred

Job description

Knowles is seeking a Global Procurement Director to lead the direct materials sourcing strategy across NA, Mexico, and Asia. You will build a resilient supply base, optimize total cost of ownership, and drive supplier performance across manufacturing sites.

You will partner with Operations, Engineering, Quality, Finance and Product Management to ensure continuity of supply, negotiate long-term contracts, and lead a high-performing procurement organization globally. On-site in Itasca, IL.