Purchasing & Planning Manager

Warn Automotive, part of Vehicle Service Group (A Dover Company), is a world leader in driveline disconnect technology. Our heritage comes from making WWII surplus Jeeps easier to drive on the road with the first unlocking hubs. We continue today by making disconnects for cars, trucks, and SUVs around the world. These trusted technologies come from years of innovation and listening to our customers’ needs. We have a bright future ahead so come join our growing team at Warn Automotive.

Company Overview:
Warn Automotive can trace its beginning back to 1948, when Arthur Warn invented the first disconnecting four-wheel-drive hub for surplus World War II vehicles. Since that time, our products have continued to lead the industry with a history of innovation in Powertrain Disconnect technology. Almost 75 years later, our products are sold to OEMs around the world, enhancing the performance, traction and capability of their vehicles while reducing fuel consumption and emissions to create a more mobile and efficient future. Operating from our headquarters and manufacturing facility in Milwaukie, Oregon and our customer support center in Livonia, Michigan, Warn Automotive is proud to be part of Vehicle Service Group (VSG) a Dover Company.

Position Summary:
The Purchasing and Planning Manager is responsible for developing and implementing sourcing strategies including purchasing, contracts, ensuring reliable and effective sources of supply and cost reduction.  This role supervises and supports Sales & Operations Planning and Scheduling and Purchasing (inventory and MRO).

 
Essential Job Functions Include:
•    Collaborate with and engage team members to ensure flawless execution of new technology and new automotive programs.  Ensure strategic supply base is engaged and acting as part of the team.
•    Review and develop strategic supply base in collaboration with quality, engineering functions, and Dover Asia Pacific Office.  Drive customer requirements and automotive standards to all suppliers with a focus on clarity and understanding.  Including negotiation, review, and management of contracts for all procured goods, services, and capital equipment globally. 
•    Conduct supplier visits as needed to ensure positive/constructive relationships, and to monitor/manage all ongoing projects – new products, cost improvement, quality improvement, inventory reduction, terms negotiations, etc. 
•    Develop plans and lead critical supplier negotiations to ensure competitive pricing and terms aligned to strategic goals, automotive requirements and customer expectations.  Including assignment of resources (Dover Sourcing, VSG, APO, 3rd party, and WA Team) and clear guidance to ensure comprehensive negotiation targets are met across entire supply base.
•    Participate in and support Quality Operating System activities including review of key supplier metrics as they relate to customer warranty, and operational quality.  Drive continued improvement across supply base and ensure zero disruption in production and customer delivery. 
•    Participates in and coaches team members and partners to support a culture of Continuous Improvement and growth.  Including efforts to reduce costs, grow margins, improve cash flow, and increase turns.
•    Support facilities manager and operations team in running a safe and efficient operation.  Including assessment of material flow, make versus buy analysis, quality, and safety audits.
•    Develop strategic direction, objectives, tactics, and supporting budgets, justification, and resource plans to ensure corporate growth and financial objectives are met.  Includes collaboration with Warn Automotive leadership team, VSG Leadership team, and Dover Corporate functions.
•    Take the lead in planning and forecast meetings (SIOP) to ensure uninterrupted delivery to customers, minimal downtime, and sufficient notification of supply base and operational teams.
•    Develop and maintain a Plan for Every Part (PFEP) to ensure optimal inventory levels and warehousing strategies. 
•    Maintain active presence in development and implementation of ERP system upgrades and transitions. 
•    Perform or direct regular and ongoing assessment of supply base for optimal performance, value, and sustainability.  Including developing and monitoring processes and practices necessary for legal and ethical compliance in assigned area.
•    Ensure clear career paths, training, and development are provided.  Perform reviews, disciplinary, and recruiting activities in a transparent and ethical manner.  Set annual goals and provide feedback to motivate and inspire team members to grow personally and greatly contribute to the company’s goals and growth objectives. 
•    Accountable for Sarbanes-Oxley compliance in assigned area.  Responsible for design and operating effectiveness of in