Position Overview
Job Title: Strategic Global Sourcing Specialist - Electrical & Mechanical Commodity
Department: Global Operations
Location: Chennai, India
Position Type: Full-Time / Salaried
Travel Required: Up to 10% international travel
Reporting To: Strategic Global Sourcing Manager
Job Purpose
The Strategic Global Sourcing Specialist drives global strategic sourcing initiatives across Eriez and its international subsidiaries. This role focuses on identifying, evaluating, qualifying, and managing suppliers of electrical, electronic, electro-mechanical, and mechanical components. The position supports end-to-end sourcing projects designed to deliver cost savings, shorten lead times, elevate supplier performance, and maintain a resilient, quality-compliant supply chain aligned with global operational goals.
Key Responsibilities
1. Supplier Identification & Development
Scout, identify, and benchmark prospective suppliers of electrical, electronic, and electro-mechanical components primarily across India and Southeast Asia, expanding globally as required.
Prepare and issue Requests for Quotation (RFQs), analyze proposals, and lead commercial/contractual negotiations on pricing, terms, and delivery schedules.
Conduct supplier capability assessments against Eriez's technical, ethical, quality, and operational standards.
Facilitate complete supplier onboarding, sample validation, first-piece inspection compliance, and corrective action implementation.
2. Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) & Performance
Cultivate strategic, long-term partnerships with critical suppliers to ensure continuous material availability and operational alignment.
Perform supplier audits, on-site evaluations, and periodic supplier reviews.
Track and manage supplier KPI scorecards (Quality, Cost, Delivery, Responsiveness) and proactively resolve performance deviations or supply chain bottlenecks.
3. Cross-Functional Collaboration & Sourcing Execution
Partner closely with Engineering, Quality, Operations, and Regional Procurement teams to support New Product Introduction (NPI) sourcing requirements.
Review and interpret engineering drawings, product specifications, and bill of materials (BOMs) to align supplier capabilities with engineering standards.
Drive continuous improvement programs to optimize procurement cycle times, lower total cost of ownership (TCO), and streamline global sourcing workflows.
4. Compliance & Governance
Ensure all sourcing activities strictly adhere to internal corporate governance, global trade compliance, and regulatory frameworks.
Maintain accurate supplier data, contracts, and pricing records within ERP systems.
Qualifications & Experience
Education: Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, or related discipline strongly preferred); Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management also considered.
Experience: Minimum 7-10 years of progressive supply chain and strategic sourcing experience (Assistant Manager level or equivalent).
Certifications: Professional credentials such as CPM, APICS (CSCP/CPIM), CIPS, or equivalent are preferred.
Location Requirement: Must be based in India (Chennai preferred).
Technical & Behavioral Competencies
Technical Acumen: Proven ability to read and interpret technical drawings, component specifications, and manufacturing process sheets.
Systems Proficiency: Hands-on experience with enterprise ERP software and advanced Microsoft Office skills (Excel, PowerPoint).
Commercial & Negotiation Skills: Strong analytical capabilities, cost modeling skills, and proven negotiation acumen.
Communication & Languages: Professional fluency in English and Hindi required; proficiency in Tamil is a distinct advantage.
Cross-Cultural Competence: Demonstrated ability to work independently and interface effectively across diverse, multicultural global teams.