Purchasing Manager

A U.S.-based manufacturer of advanced machine tools, CNC systems, and industrial automation equipment is seeking a seasoned Purchasing and Procurement Manager to lead sourcing strategy, supplier relationships, and materials management across a highly engineered production environment.This role is ideal for a hands-on professional who understands the complexities of buying precision components, fabricated structures, and automation systems for large-scale machinery used in heavy industrial and equipment manufacturing sectors.Role Summary:The Manager of Purchasing & Sourcing oversees procurement operations, supplier negotiations, and sourcing initiatives that support on-time, cost-effective manufacturing. This individual will manage day-to-day buying activities, develop vendor partnerships, and guide a small team of buyers and sourcing specialists.Purchasing and Sourcing Manager Key Responsibilities:Direct the procurement and purchasing of machined parts, castings, fabrications, hydraulic assemblies, controls, and automation components used in large CNC and machine tool systems.Develop supplier strategies that optimize cost, delivery, and quality while maintaining strong relationships across the global supply base.Negotiate pricing, contracts, and long-term supply agreements, including vendor-managed inventory and blanket purchase arrangements.Oversee daily buying operations — including purchase order approvals, supplier communication, and inventory alignment with production needs.Partner with Engineering to evaluate supplier capability for complex parts and assemblies.Work with Quality and Production to address delivery issues, non-conformances, or rework situations promptly.Lead supplier evaluations, audits, and continuous improvement programs to strengthen performance and reduce supply risk.Monitor commodity markets, cost trends, and material availability to proactively manage risk exposure.Mentor and develop team members, promoting best practices in sourcing and procurement processes.Qualifications:Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Business, or related field.8–10 years of progressive experience in purchasing, procurement, or sourcing for machine tools, CNC systems, automation equipment, or heavy industrial manufacturing.Strong understanding of machined parts, fabrications, hydraulics, and control systems used in precision machinery.Proven negotiation, contract management, and supplier performance experience.Proficiency with ERP systems and purchasing workflows.Ability to interpret technical drawings and collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams.Track record of cost improvement, process efficiency, and supplier development.Preferred Experience:Background buying robotics, automation systems, or large CNC machines.Established supplier network within the machine tool and industrial automation industries.Experience managing or supporting global sourcing and supplier qualification efforts.Professional certifications such as CSCP, CPM, or CPP.Familiarity with lean supply chain or continuous improvement programs.Attributes for Success:Strategic and analytical thinker with hands-on execution ability.Confident negotiator who builds long-term vendor partnerships.Collaborative communicator skilled at bridging engineering and operations.Detail-oriented, organized, and results-focused.Committed to continuous improvement and operational excellence.The Opportunity:Compensation: Base salary range $120,000–$170,000, commensurate with experienceThis is a key leadership position with an established manufacturer of precision machine tools and automation systems. The selected candidate will drive sourcing and procurement strategy for high-value, engineered-to-order machinery while shaping supplier partnerships that support innovation, quality, and production efficiency.