Purchasing Procurement Director

ABOUT OPTA
From our roots providing sand to local foundries in the 1880's, Opta has grown to an international group of companies committed to delivering optimal results for our customers. Opta's purpose is to be the leading supplier of performance solutions for metallurgical, value-added glass, and specialty chemical applications. We strive to be the leading provider of innovative steelmaking reagents, slag conditioners, and metal remediation materials consumed in the North American and European markets. We aim to be the market leader in steelmaking products through an unwavering focus on supporting our customers’ needs. We measure our success by our presence in a majority of steel mills throughout the world. Our vision is to expand our geographic reach and broaden into adjacent industries such as aluminum, copper, concrete, and glass.


OPTA CORE VALUES
Accountability and Integrity in everything we do
• PEOPLE: We will invest in our people with promoting Diversity and Inclusion for the success of our organization
• CUSTOMERS: Committed to our customers to deliver Consistent Quality products, Solutions andService
• SAFETY: Providing employees a Safe environment in which to thrive
• INNOVATION: Deliver outstanding performance through Continuous Improvement and Creativity
• SUSTAINABILITY: Enhancing Sustainability by respecting and protecting the Environment in the communication where we live and work


JOB DESCRIPTION
North American Procurement Director

POSITION SUMMARY

The Purchasing Director will oversee and optimize the management of the company's procurement activities, ensuring the timely and cost-effective sourcing of materials, maintaining a deep understanding of key markets and commodities. The individual will also build strong relationships with suppliers, implement sourcing alliances, and manage a small administrative team. This position requires a dynamic leader with proven expertise in procurement and supply chain management, as well as a comprehensive understanding of international freight logistics and the sales and operations planning process.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Oversee and manage all procurement activities for the company, ensuring the supply of high-quality materials in line with production and operational needs.
• Develop and maintain a working knowledge of key markets and commodities, continuously monitoring market trends and global supply chain dynamics.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers, including developing strategic sourcing alliances to optimize cost, quality, and lead times.
• Implement and drive procurement strategies to reduce costs, improve efficiency, and ensure high standards of quality and compliance.
• Lead, mentor, and manage direct reports, providing guidance and development to team members.
• Collaborate with sales, operations, engineering and R&D teams to ensure alignment among procurement activities and company objectives.
• Support the Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP) process by collaborating with sales, operations, and supply chain teams to ensure materials are procured according to demand forecasts, capacity availability, and inventory requirements.
• Utilize Lean Manufacturing principles to optimize procurement processes, drive cost savings, and improve operational efficiency.
• Manage supplier performance, including conducting regular supplier reviews, audits, and assessments to ensure compliance with contractual agreements and performance standards.
• Work closely with senior management to manage budgets, forecast material costs, and ensure alignment with financial objectives.
• Oversee international procurement requirements, ensuring timely and cost-effective delivery of materials across global supply chains. Collaborate with the logistics team to coordinate international freight requirements.
• Continuously evaluate procurement policies and procedures, making recommendations for improvements where necessary.

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
• Bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, materials science, industrial engineering, or a related field.
• MBA or advanced degree is highly preferred.
• Minimum of five years of leadership experience in procurement, operations, or supply chain management in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience in sourcing chemicals or other direct materials used in industrial applications; experience in steelmaking or steelmaking chemicals is a plus.
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles and how to apply them to procurement and supply chain processes.
• Proven track record of building and maintaining supplier relationships and sourcing alliances.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, analytics, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to an