Purchasing Manager

Spirit Electronics is a veteran-owned, woman-owned value-added supplier of high reliability components, engineering services and superior supply chain solutions. With a history rooted in serving the military and space industries, Spirit strives to be a valued partner to key technology sectors. As an award-winning distributor, Spirit delivers authorized products and a range of value-added services, including SMI/VMI, foundry access, electrical and environmental testing, design, assembly, and end-of-life management.

Position Overview:

The Purchasing Manager is a key leadership role overseeing procurement activities in Spirit’s Purchasing department. This position plays a crucial role in developing and implementing strategic purchasing initiatives and managing supplier relationships for franchised distribution and engineering services for microelectronics, semiconductors, and EEE components. The Purchasing Manager ensures the efficient operation of the Purchasing department and a team of Purchasing Coordinators, optimizes supply chain processes, and aligns procurement strategies with Spirit’s overall business objectives.

Essential Job Functions:

• Lead and manage the Purchasing Coordinator team, including hiring, training, mentoring, and performance management
• Develop and implement purchasing strategies and policies that align with Spirit’s purchasing objectives, focusing on cost reduction, quality improvement, and supply chain optimization
• Oversee the procurement of all materials, components, and services for aerospace and defense applications
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers, negotiating contracts, prices, and terms to ensure the best value for Spirit and our customers
• Collaborate with senior management to align purchasing strategies with long-term business plans and market trends
• Develop and implement policies, procedures, and best practices for the Purchasing department, ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations
• Manage the department budget and control procurement-related expenses
• Lead strategic sourcing initiatives, including supplier selection, evaluation, and performance management
• Oversee the implementation and optimization of supply chain technologies, including Spirit’s ERP system and e-procurement platforms
• Ensure compliance with AS9100, MIL-STD, and export control requirements and regulations and other relevant industry standards in all purchasing activities
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Sales, Engineering, Quality, Finance) to align purchasing decisions with technical requirements and business needs
• Develop and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for the Purchasing department, regularly reporting on performance to senior leadership
• Lead risk management initiatives related to supply chain disruptions, market fluctuations, and geopolitical factors
• Drive continuous improvement projects to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve supplier performance
• Oversee the management of inventory levels, balancing cost control with operational requirements
• Represent the company in industry events, conferences, and high-level supplier meetings
• Mentor and develop team members, fostering a culture of excellence and professional growth within the department
• Stay informed about emerging technologies, market trends, and best practices in procurement and supply chain management
• Collaborate with legal and Quality teams to ensure adherence to contractual obligations and regulatory requirements
• Lead the integration of sustainability and ethical sourcing practices into the procurement process

• 10+ years of experience in purchasing or supply chain management, with at least 3 years in a leadership role, preferably in the aerospace and defense industry
• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, supply chain management, or related field; professional certifications a plus
• Extensive knowledge of procurement strategies, strategic sourcing, and supplier relationship management
• Strong understanding of microelectronics, semiconductors, and EEE components used in aerospace and defense applications
• Comprehensive knowledge of AS9100, MIL-STD requirements, export control regulations, ITAR compliance, and other relevant industry standards
• Proven track record of implementing successful cost savings initiatives and process improvements
• Advanced proficiency in ERP systems, e-procurement platforms, and supply chain analytics tools
• Excellent leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and develop staff
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to make data-driven decisions
• Superior negotiation skills and the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels of the organization
• In-depth understanding of financial principles related to procurement and supply chain management
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to present complex information to senior leadership
• Strong project management skills and experience leading cross-functional initiatives
• Demonstrated ability to think strategically and translate long-term goals into actionable plans
• Knowledge of quality management systems and their application in the procurement process
• Familiarity with continuous improvement methodologies
• Ability to maintain the highest level of confidentiality when handling sensitive and classified information
• Adaptability and innovative thinking to address rapidly changing market conditions and technological advances
• Strong ethical standards and a commitment to maintaining the integrity of the procurement process
• Strong knowledge of aerospace and defense industry procurement processes, preferably with experience in microelectronics and semiconductor components
• Proven track record of leading and developing high-performing customer support teams
• Excellent understanding of customer service principles and best practices in a B2B environment
• Strong knowledge of AS9100 and MIL-STD requirements, export control regulations, and other relevant industry standards
• Proficiency in ERP systems, CRM software, and data analysis tools
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with customers, suppliers, and internal stakeholders at all levels
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to make data-driven decisions
• Experience in process improvement methodologies and change management
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• Strong project management skills and experience leading cross-functional initiatives
• In-depth understanding of supply chain dynamics and their impact on customer satisfaction
• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement strategic plans and policies
• Experience with conflict resolution and negotiation in a customer service context
• Adaptability and willingness to embrace new technologies and innovative approaches to customer support
• Knowledge of quality management systems and their application in customer support processes