Strategic Sourcing Manager

Description

Company Overview:

At ACE Thermal Systems, we design, engineer, manufacture, and support high-performance environmental control systems (ECS) and components for extreme temperature and operating conditions and reliable everyday use.
As your single source, dedicated supplier for bleed air systems, air conditioning systems, cabin pressure control systems, components, and more, the ACE team acts as a key extension of your team, providing intelligent innovation and proven design methodologies to deliver safe, reliable, air control technologies and systems for aircraft.
Our mission is to be the trusted source of mission critical products and services for Aerospace and Defense customers. We do this by exceeding customer expectations through innovative products and processes. We are committed to fostering a dynamic, collaborative environment that encourages professional growth and innovation.  

Position Summary:

The Strategic Sourcing Manager plays a critical leadership role in driving sourcing strategy, supplier performance, and operational excellence across the organization. This position owns end-to-end sourcing initiatives for key work transfers, complex supplier transitions, and strategic material categories that directly impact cost, quality, and delivery performance. A major focus of the role is leading complex supplier and part transition projects, including supplier changes, work transfers, and part obsolescence management ensuring execution to schedule, cost, and quality targets. Acting as a cross-functional leader, this role partners closely with engineering, manufacturing, quality, and finance to ensure seamless supplier execution and supply continuity, requiring strong project management capabilities and effective cross-functional leadership.

This is an on-site role, requiring regular engagement in manufacturing operations and supplier-facing initiatives, with 25–50% domestic and international travel for audits, supplier development, negotiations, and transitions. This person pay sit at our location in either Thornton, CO or Seminole, OK.
 

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Sourcing & Supplier Management

• Lead the development and execution of strategic sourcing strategies for key work transfers, material categories, components, and services.
• Lead complex supplier and part transition projects, including supplier changes, work transfers, and part obsolescence management, ensuring execution to schedule, cost, and quality targets.
• Identify, evaluate, qualify, and select suppliers to meet business needs while maintaining cost, quality, and delivery targets.
• Establish and maintain strong, long-term relationships with suppliers, negotiating favorable terms and agreements.
• Monitor supplier performance, ensuring compliance with contract terms, quality standards, and delivery requirements.
• Support company make vs. buy initiatives through detailed cost analysis and data analytics.
• Improve supplier performance through a robust supplier relationship management (SRM) program.

Cost Management & Budgeting

• Develop and manage sourcing strategies to optimize costs, reduce procurement expenses, and improve profitability.
• Collaborate with finance and engineering teams to ensure alignment on cost targets, budgets, and cost-saving initiatives.
• Analyze market trends, conduct cost benchmarking, and propose new sourcing initiatives to achieve competitive pricing.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with engineering, operations, and quality teams to understand product specifications, production schedules, and quality requirements.
• Partner with internal stakeholders to anticipate supply chain challenges and proactively resolve potential disruptions
• Contribute to new product development by ensuring timely sourcing of materials and services that meet project specifications and deadlines.

Risk Management & Supply Chain Optimization

• Identify, implement, and manage supply chain risks including security of supply; economic factors; and geopolitical, regulatory, and operational risks that could impact sourcing.
• Develop contingency plans to ensure continuity of supply and minimize production delays.
• Continuously assess and improve sourcing processes, implementing best practices for supply chain resilience and efficiency.

Contract Negotiation & Compliance

• Lead negotiations with suppliers on long-term agreements (LTA’s) regarding terms, pricing, and service-levels.
• Ensure all contracts follow company policies, legal regulations, and industry standards
• Maintain up-to-date r