Purchasing Manager – Indirect Materials

Location: SMP Automotive System Alabama Inc.

Position Description

Are you proud to be part of something meaningful? Do you have the drive to deliver results and create value? Do you thrive in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment?

SMP Automotive System Alabama Inc. develops and manufactures plastic components and highly integrated modules for the automotive industry. As part of the Motherson Group—one of the world’s largest automotive suppliers—we are committed to innovation, operational excellence, and continuous improvement.

At SMP, we value employee contributions and invest in development to prepare our team for the evolving challenges of the automotive supply industry. If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for procurement and cost optimization, this is your opportunity to make an impact.

Position Summary

The Purchasing Manager – Indirect Materials is responsible for the strategic sourcing and procurement of indirect goods and services that support plant operations. This role drives cost efficiency, supplier performance, and alignment with production needs and corporate objectives, while building strong supplier partnerships across the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute sourcing strategies for indirect commodities aligned with plant and regional objectives
• Lead supplier selection, negotiations, and contract execution to achieve cost savings and performance targets
• Manage supplier relationships and performance (quality, delivery, service)
• Collaborate with operations, engineering, maintenance, and IT to forecast demand and optimize procurement planning
• Conduct market analysis, benchmarking, and bid comparisons
• Drive cost-reduction initiatives through total cost of ownership (TCO) analysis
• Identify and implement opportunities to optimize and rationalize the supplier base
• Lead contract negotiations and ensure compliance with corporate procurement policies
• Identify and mitigate supply chain risks impacting operations
• Support regional synergies across Motherson divisions
• Lead cross-functional meetings to track procurement initiatives and project status
• Analyze procurement data to support supplier strategy development
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives and achieve savings targets
• Manage supplier escalations and lead resolution efforts

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Industrial Engineering, Business Administration, or related field (Master’s/MBA preferred)
• 5–7 years of experience in indirect procurement within automotive or manufacturing
• Strong knowledge of indirect categories (MRO, tooling, facility services, IT, logistics, capital equipment)
• Experience with ERP systems (SAP preferred) and e-sourcing tools
• Strong negotiation, contract management, and supplier development skills
• Experience with cost analysis and total cost of ownership (TCO) methodologies
• Familiarity with automotive standards (IATF 16949, ISO 14001)
• Knowledge of sustainability and supplier diversity practices is a plus
• Professional certifications (CPSM, CIPS, Lean Six Sigma) are advantageous
• Strong analytical, communication, and leadership skills

Core Values

Candidates must demonstrate alignment with our core values:
Passion for Excellence, Accountability, Respect, Innovation, Teamwork, and Integrity

What You’ll Enjoy Working With Us

• 120 hours PTO + 32 hours sick time annually
• 11 paid holidays
• 401(k) with company match
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage (multiple plan options)
• 100% employer-paid life insurance, short-term & long-term disability
• Voluntary benefits (life, critical illness, accident, hospital indemnity, legal plan)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Paid volunteer time
• Safety shoe & prescription safety glasses allowance
• Team wear allotment
• ADP LifeMart discounts
• Paid training & development opportunities
• Recognition programs and career growth opportunities

Additional Information

• Offers are contingent upon successful completion of background check and drug screening
• This role plays a key part in driving cost efficiency and operational excellence across the region

How to Apply

If you’re ready to join a growing, innovative organization and drive meaningful impact, please submit your resume along with a summary of your accomplishments.

Apply at: www.smp-automotive.com/en