Strategic Sourcing Specialist

Kubota Tractor Corporation; Grapevine (TX); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Kubota Tractor Corporation is seeking a Supply Chain professional to support new product introductions (NPI). The role requires procurement of materials, strong negotiation skills, and a solid understanding of contract manufacturing.

The ideal candidate will have at least 10 years of experience in supply chain and will work closely with various internal teams. A Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management is preferred.

15% travel may be necessary for this role.

Qualifications

• At least 10 years of NPI/Supply Chain experience.
• Solid understanding of contract manufacturing.
• Experience working with contract manufacturers.

Responsibilities

• Procure materials for new product launches.
• Negotiate contracts and prices with suppliers.
• Manage planning and material requirements for product launches.

Skills

Negotiation skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Attention to detail

Interpersonal skills

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management or related field

Tools

S4 HANA

Job description

Job Overview

This role supports supply chain activities supporting new product introduction (NPI) within Kubota North America. This role will work closely with engineers, product and program managers and across Supply Chain departments. Responsibilities include but are not limited to source of supply selection, purchasing and managing materials, components, and vendors at multiple levels required for the development and launch of new products.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify source then procure materials and components specifically for new product launches, working closely with engineering and product development teams.
• Identify and vet new suppliers, especially for hard‑to‑source or specialized components working with the KNA Supply Chain department.
• Negotiate contracts, prices and terms with suppliers to secure the best terms for the organization and follow requirements to set them up in KTC’s ERP system.
• Obtain quotes, negotiate pricing, and issue purchase orders in accordance with company policies and cost objectives.
• Build and maintain relationships with suppliers, addressing discrepancies or issues with orders, quality, delivery, and pricing.
• Manage planning and material requirements from the development phase through pilot builds, ensuring supply readiness to support product launches.
• Support production readiness by ensuring new parts are set‑up for purchase and coordinate the transition from NPI to production procurement teams.
• Work with engineering and R&D teams on pre‑production approvals and change control documentation for materials.
• Track and report on material order status, delivery timelines, and inventory levels to support NPI project schedules.
• Coordinate with engineering and product management for new product introductions and end‑of‑life product phase‑outs.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally with internal teams (technology, engineering, product marketing, finance, operations and quality) to align stocking levels and resolve barriers in shipping, material shortages, or other disruptions.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required AND at least 10 years of NPI/Supply Chain experience.
• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, business, engineering or related field (preferred).
• Solid understanding of contract manufacturing; including overhead, inventory carrying costs, purchase price and other cost changes.
• Strong negotiation and interpersonal skills to work with suppliers and internal teams.
• Analytical and math skills for evaluating costs, managing budgets, and analyzing market data for global supply chain understanding.
• Attention to detail to ensure accuracy in contracts, forecasts and purchase orders and inventory records.
• Proficiency in purchasing and inventory management software, such as S4 HANA.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Experience working with contract manufacturers.
• Advanced knowledge of procurement principles, negotiations, contracts and supplier management.
• 15% travel may be required.

Physical Requirements

• Requires sufficient personal mobility and physical reflexes, to permit the employee to function in a general office environment and accomplish tasks and duties as outlined above.

Disclaimer

The information provided in the description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by incumbents within the classification. This description is not intended to be a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications and working conditions required of employees assigned to this job/classification. This job is intended to include the current essential functions of the job. Management reserves the right to add or modify the duties and responsibilities and to designate other functions as essential at any time.

Kubota is an equal opportunity at will employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of age, race, religion, color, disability, sex, sexual orientation or national origin.