Global Commodity Manager Thermal Technology

Role summary

 

This position within the Global Procurement Office is responsible for leading the global thermal commodity strategy to align with Advantest’s business, engineering, and supply chain needs. The role works closely with global business units, R&D, procurement, and supply chain teams to manage, develop, and influence the thermal supply base, ensuring suppliers meet Advantest’s technical, commercial, and operational requirements. The Global Commodity Manager acts as the key interface between corporate procurement, the global thermal team, and business units, driving strategic alignment and supply chain excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Commodity & Supplier Strategy

• Develop, implement, and lead the global thermal commodity strategy aligned with long-range business goals.
• Identify, evaluate, and develop suppliers to ensure capability, competitiveness, and long-term strategic fit.
• Maintain strong supplier relationships by understanding their product portfolios and organizational dynamics.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Serve as the interface between business units, R&D, procurement, and global supply chain for all thermal-related supply topics.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams to ensure alignment between business needs and supplier capabilities.
• Support solicitation processes (RFQs, RFIs, RFPs) and define requirements and specifications.

 

Supplier Management & Risk Mitigation
• Monitor supplier performance in quality, cost, and delivery.
• Assess supplier risk, assurance-of-supply, and continuity plans; develop mitigation measures.
• Drive supplier selection, performance management, and contract negotiations.
Commercial & Contracting Responsibilities
• Negotiate pricing and commercial terms based on projected volumes.
• Create and maintain contracts, specifications, and mutual expectations documents.
Strategic Alignment
• Ensure thermal strategies align with business unit requirements and corporate goals.
• Identify future technical and supply needs and ensure procurement supports business success.

 

The ideal candidate should exhibit the following behavioral traits:
• Strong stakeholder management, problem‑solving, and results orientation.
• Ability to work independently in a global, matrixed environment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong time‑management and ability to balance global priorities.
• Strategic thinker with attention to detail.
• Strong initiative and influencing skills.

Qualifications

Qualifications
You must possess the below minimum qualifications to be initially considered for this position. Preferred qualifications are in addition to the minimum requirements and are considered a plus factor in identifying top candidates. 

Minimum Qualifications:
• Master’s degree in business or Bachelor’s in Engineering (preferably EE).
• 10+ years semiconductor industry experience in sourcing, commodity management, or thermal-related account management.
• Experience developing corporate commodity strategies.
• Executive-level supplier/customer relationship management.
• Global organizational and thermal manufacturing experience.

 

Preferred Qualifications:
• Knowledge of semiconductor fab processes, packaging materials, and manufacturing technologies.