Strategic Buyer: Global Sourcing & Supply Chain Leader

advantestcareers; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Advantest seeks a Senior Buyer to lead strategic sourcing and supplier management in a manufacturing/tech setting. You will shape procurement strategies, negotiate high-value contracts, and align purchasing with production and customer commitments.

The role requires deep analytical ability, strong negotiation skills, and proficiency with ERP/MRP systems. On-site collaboration with diverse teams in San Jose, CA drives continuous improvement and cost control.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field.
• 7+ years of purchasing, sourcing, or procurement experience in manufacturing or technology.
• Experience negotiating supplier agreements and managing strategic supplier relationships.
• Strong analytical, financial, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems and procurement tools.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and data analysis.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage supplier relationships for reliable supply, pricing, and service levels.
• Negotiate pricing, contracts, terms, and conditions for cost savings and risk mitigation.
• Analyze demand forecasts and purchasing requirements to support production.
• Issue and manage purchase orders and monitor supplier performance.
• Conduct supplier evaluations and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams for sourcing opportunities and new product introductions.
• Monitor inventory levels and optimize stock to avoid shortages and excess.
• Track market trends and supplier capabilities to inform sourcing decisions.
• Ensure compliance with procurement policies, regulatory requirements, and ethical standards.
• Develop reports and analyze spend, supplier performance, and procurement metrics.

Skills

Analytical skills

Financial acumen

Problem-solving

Communication

Negotiation

Stakeholder management

Data analysis

Education

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

Tools

ERP/MRP systems

Procurement tools

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Advantest seeks a Senior Buyer to lead strategic sourcing and supplier management in a manufacturing/tech setting. You will shape procurement strategies, negotiate high-value contracts, and align purchasing with production and customer commitments.

The role requires deep analytical ability, strong negotiation skills, and proficiency with ERP/MRP systems. On-site collaboration with diverse teams in San Jose, CA drives continuous improvement and cost control.