Strategic Sourcing Manager [Automotive]

Strategic Sourcing Manager [Automotive] – Indirect Procurement (Manpower or Utilities Background)
The Category Buyer – Indirect Procurement is responsible for sourcing, negotiating, and managing contracts across all indirect spend categories, including manpower services, utilities (energy), equipment leasing (e.g., forklifts), telecommunications, audit and certification services, and other operational support services. The role ensures cost efficiency, compliance, quality, and uninterrupted service delivery in line with organizational objectives.
Key Responsibilities :
1. Strategic Sourcing & Category Management
Develop and execute sourcing strategies for indirect categories such as manpower outsourcing, energy procurement, leasing, telecom, and professional services.
Conduct market analysis and supplier benchmarking to identify cost-saving opportunities.
Build category plans with clear KPIs, cost targets, and risk mitigation strategies.
2. Supplier Management
Identify, evaluate, and onboard qualified suppliers.
Develop strong supplier relationships to ensure service reliability and innovation.
Monitor supplier performance through SLAs, KPIs, and periodic reviews.
Manage supplier risk, including financial, operational, and compliance risks.
3. Contract Management
• Lead contract negotiations to secure best commercial and legal terms.
• Draft, review, and manage contracts, ensuring compliance with company policies.
• Ensure contracts include clear SLAs, penalties, and performance metrics.
4. Cost Control & Budget Management
• Drive cost optimization initiatives across all indirect spend areas.
• Track and report procurement savings and cost avoidance.
• Manage procurement budgets and ensure alignment with finance targets.
5. Stakeholder Management
Collaborate with internal departments such as HR (manpower), Operations (forklifts), Finance, IT (telecom), and Compliance (audit certifications).
Understand business needs and translate them into procurement strategies.
Provide advisory support on procurement best practices.
6. Compliance & Governance
Ensure procurement activities comply with company policies and regulatory requirements. Support internal and external audits related to procurement.
Maintain proper documentation and procurement records.
Qualifications & Experience:
Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business Administration, or related field (MBA preferred).
Minimum 3 years of procurement experience, with strong exposure to indirect sourcing on Energy, Subcontracted manpower, Audit & Certifications
Experience managing multiple service categories and complex contracts.
Knowledge of procurement systems (e.g., SAP Ariba, Oracle, Coupa).

Work arrangement
Yes