Strategic Sourcing Manager

Company Overview:
Cleveland Wheel & Brakes is a leading mid-sized aerospace company that designs and manufactures innovative aerospace systems, equipment, and service solutions for commercial and defense applications. With product lines that have over 80 years of safe takeoffs and landings, we are one world’s most experienced, recognizable, and respected wheel and brake manufacturers. Our mission is to be the trusted source of mission critical products and services for Aerospace and Defense customers. We do this by exceeding customer expectations through innovative products and processes. We are committed to fostering a dynamic, collaborative environment that encourages professional growth and innovation.

Position Summary:
The Strategic Sourcing Manager will be responsible for managing the end-to-end sourcing process for key work transfers, assigned categories, or projects; driving cost-effective and efficient procurement strategies; and ensuring the seamless supply of materials and components for our aerospace products. The role requires a deep understanding of aerospace manufacturing, supplier relationship management, and procurement best practices. This is a strategic, hands-on position, critical to ensuring the success and profitability of the company.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Sourcing & Supplier Management:
  • Lead the development and execution of strategic sourcing strategies for key work transfers, material categories, components, and services.
  • Identify, evaluate, qualify, and select suppliers to meet business needs while maintaining cost, quality, and delivery targets.
  • Establish and maintain strong, long-term relationships with suppliers, negotiating favorable terms and agreements.
  • Monitor supplier performance, ensuring compliance with contract terms, quality standards, and delivery requirements.
  • Support company make vs. buy initiatives through detailed cost analysis and data analytics.
  • Improve supplier performance through a robust supplier relationship management (SRM) program.
• Cost Management & Budgeting:
  • Develop and manage sourcing strategies to optimize costs, reduce procurement expenses, and improve profitability.
  • Collaborate with finance and engineering teams to ensure alignment on cost targets, budgets, and cost-saving initiatives.
  • Analyze market trends, conduct cost benchmarking, and propose new sourcing initiatives to achieve competitive pricing.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration:
  • Work closely with engineering, operations, and quality teams to understand product specifications, production schedules, and quality requirements.
  • Partner with internal stakeholders to anticipate supply chain challenges and proactively resolve potential disruptions.
  • Contribute to new product development by ensuring timely sourcing of materials and services that meet project specifications and deadlines.
• Risk Management & Supply Chain Optimization:
  • Identify, implement, and manage supply chain risks including security of supply; economic factors; and geopolitical, regulatory, and operational risks that could impact sourcing.
  • Develop contingency plans to ensure continuity of supply and minimize production delays.
  • Continuously assess and improve sourcing processes, implementing best practices for supply chain resilience and efficiency.
• Contract Negotiation & Compliance:
  • Lead negotiations with suppliers on long-term agreements (LTA’s) regarding terms, pricing, and service-levels.
  • Ensure all contracts follow company policies, legal regulations, and industry standards.
  • Maintain up-to-date records of contracts, performance reports, and supplier audits.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field. MBA or relevant advanced degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in strategic sourcing or procurement, in a manufacturing industry, preferably aerospace.
• In-depth knowledge of sourcing strategies, supplier management, cost analysis, and risk management.
• Strong understanding of aerospace industry standards, regulations, and certification processes (e.g., AS9100, FAR/DFAR).
• Proven sourcing experience in work transfers, supplier relationship management (SRM), supplier negotiation, contract management, and cost-saving initiatives.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively across all levels of the organization.
• Strong analytical skills with a data-driven approach to decision-making.
• Proficient in sourcing software, ERP systems (IFS strongly preferred), and MS Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, etc.).

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with global sourcing, including understanding of international trade laws, tariffs, and logistics.
• Familiarity with advanced procurement technologies, including e-sourcing platforms and supply chain analytics tools.