Interim Manager Strategic Purchasing

Gofractional; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Gofractional seeks an Interim Manager for Strategic Purchasing based in Houston, TX. This role leads procurement operations to support the company's growth. You will develop vendor relationships, optimize purchasing processes, and manage supplier performance while ensuring compliance with both U.S. and German standards.

The ideal candidate will have over 5 years of experience in procurement, strong negotiation skills, and the ability to mentor cross-functional teams. Join us to make a significant impact in our organization.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of procurement experience in a manufacturing, industrial or engineering environment.
• Valid Driver's License.
• Experience with ERP systems.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage strong relationships with vendors and internal teams.
• Localize and source components from U.S. suppliers.
• Analyze procurement activities and recommend improvements.

Skills

Supplier negotiation

Procurement process optimization

Interpersonal skills

Project management

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business Administration or related field

Tools

ERP systems (IFS and ProAlpha)

Job description

Interim Manager Strategic Purchasing

Location: Houston, TX

Employment Type: Full Time

Level: Manager/Supervisor

Role Overview

In the capacity of an Interim Manager Strategic Purchasing at DWT, your contribution is crucial to fostering the company's expansion. The Interim Manager Strategic Purchasing will lead and optimize procurement operations within our organization. This role is key to driving supplier performance, supporting project delivery, and localizing components in coordination with our U.S. and German teams. The ideal candidate will bring strong vendor negotiation skills, deep experience in procurement process optimization, and the ability to mentor and guide team members across departments.

Key Responsibilities

Are You Looking to:

• Develop and manage strong relationships with vendors, distributors, and internal teams including Sales, Engineering, EHS, and QA?
• Localize and source components from U.S. suppliers, working closely with German and U.S. departments to ensure alignment and compliance?
• Analyze procurement activities, recommend improvements, and implement efficient procurement methods, including standardization and cooperative buying?
• Negotiate pricing, terms, deadlines, and expectations with vendors while sourcing competitive quotes for materials?
• Identify and qualify new vendors to support strategic growth and business execution?
• Conduct vendor audits and on-site visits to ensure quality, KPIs, and EHS compliance?
• Liaise with project managers to ensure material updates, delivery accuracy, and ongoing procurement support?

Are You Ready to:

• Evaluate vendor bids, terms, and proposals to ensure alignment with DWT standards and deliver cost-effective solutions.
• Maintain accurate vendor performance databases and administer contracts, NDAs, and term sheets.
• Provide procurement and operations staff with day-to-day guidance and ERP system (IFS and ProAlpha) support.
• Monitor market and delivery trends to evolve procurement strategies accordingly.
• Assist with inventory management, goods receiving, and order preparation in collaboration with the Inventory Manager.
• Participate in pre-deployment and site transition meetings to anticipate business needs and propose proactive solutions.
• Uphold safety protocols while in warehouse environments, including use of proper PPE.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business Administration, Engineering, or related field.
• 5+ years of procurement experience in a manufacturing, industrial, or engineering environment.
• Valid Driver's License
• Proven track record in supplier negotiation, localization, and process optimization.
• Experience with ERP systems (preferably IFS and ProAlpha) and strong data analysis skills.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with ability to collaborate across departments.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and thrive in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with international vendors or multi-national procurement processes.
• Knowledge of EHS and quality assurance standards in a technical environment.
• Hands-on experience in logistics, warehousing, or materials management.