Senior Category Buyer

Are you ready for what’s next?  

Come explore opportunities within Brunswick, a global marine leader committed to challenging conventions and innovating next-generation technologies that transform experiences on the water and beyond.  Brunswick believes “Next Never Rests™,” and we offer a variety of exciting careers and growth opportunities within united teams defining the future of marine recreation. 

Innovation is the heart of Brunswick.  See how your contributions will help transform vision into reality:

Position Overview: 

The Senior Category Buyer is a critical individual contributor role within Mercury’s direct material procurement organization. Reporting to the Category Manager, this position supports Mercury’s global manufacturing operations and product development programs by driving continuous improvements in supplier performance, cost competitiveness, quality, delivery, and innovation.

This role will work closely with internal engine components such as camshafts, engine bearings, timing systems, pistons, flywheels, and thermostats. All critical parts of the internal combustion engine. Experience with engine components and manufacturing processes is highly valued.

At Brunswick, we have passion for our work and a distinct ability to deliver. 

Key Responsibilities:

Execute procurement activities for product development programs as part of a cross-functional team to:

• Develop and execute component sourcing and development plans that meet functional, manufacturability, and cost targets
• Lead the request for quotation/proposal process
• Visit supplier manufacturing facilities to conduct audits, verify capabilities, and build relationships
• Negotiate best total cost for Mercury
• Issue component and tooling purchase orders
• Manage component timelines and budgets to ensure program deliverables are achieved
• Facilitate cross-functional and supplier team meetings, managing action items
• Support Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) and Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) actions led by the Mercury Supplier Quality Engineer
• Support root cause and corrective action efforts throughout the development cycle

Lead current production procurement activities for assigned suppliers:

• Drive continuous improvement in supplier performance for cost, quality, and delivery to ensure Mercury operations are successfully supported and service levels improve year-over-year
• Negotiate with current and potential suppliers to achieve lowest total cost solutions
• Manage production purchase order pricing, including scheduled reviews and updates based on pricing agreements; resolve invoicing/payment issues as needed; monitor critical input costs for assigned categories, such as currency exchange rates and raw materials
• Proactively identify and execute cost reduction projects; effectively challenge and respond to supplier price increase requests
• Support actions led by the Mercury Operations Buyer or Supplier Quality Engineer to resolve supplier delivery or quality problems
• Support supplier-driven and Mercury-driven change processes
• Act as go between suppliers/engineers
• Contribute to and drive continuous improvement activities for Mercury internal processes and systems

This role requires proven project management experience, including the ability to track changes, coordinate cross-functional teams, and resolve complex supply chain challenges. The environment is fast-paced and dynamic, requiring flexibility, adaptability, and strong organizational skills.

Diversity of thought and experiences is fundamental when imagining the unimaginable. Certain skillsets/experiences are necessary; however, others can be developed along the way.

Required Qualifications:  

• BS/BA in Engineering (preferred), Operations Management, Supply Chain, or a related field
• 5+ years of experience in sourcing, procurement, or supplier management roles
• Proven success in project management and cross-functional team leadership
• Excellent negotiating and cost management skills; adept at managing conflict and handling difficult situations
• Strong data analysis abilities and software skills, including Microsoft Excel and Power BI; proficient with Word, PowerPoint, and Project
• Proficient with engineering prints and specifications, APQP, and PPAP processes
• Excellent time management and organization skills; able to manage multiple ongoing projects and adapt to changing business needs
• Positive attitude, ethics, and inter