Sr. Purchasing Category Specialist, Chassis and Suspension

Sr. Purchasing Category Specialist, Chassis and Suspension Blue Bird (NASDAQ: BLBD) is recognized as a technology leader and innovator of school buses since its founding in 1927. Our dedicated team members design, engineer and manufacture school buses with a singular focus on safety, reliability, and durability. School buses carry the most precious cargo in the world 25 million children twice a day making them the most trusted mode of student transportation. The company is the proven leader in low- and zero-emission school buses with more than 25,000 propane, natural gas, and electric powered buses sold. Blue Bird is transforming the student transportation industry through cleaner energy solutions. Job Summary Reporting to the Sr. Purchasing Manager, this role is responsible for managing the procurement process to ensure the timely acquisition of goods and services. This position requires a keen eye for detail, strong negotiation skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with internal stakeholders and external suppliers. The Senior Purchasing Category Specialist is responsible for sourcing suppliers, negotiating contracts, managing inventory levels, and ensuring compliance with organizational policies and relevant regulations. This role is crucial in optimizing costs, mitigating risks, and maintaining efficient supply chain operations. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Manage multiple suppliers and strategies in Chassis and Suspension Commodities using all-encompassing purchasing tactics Conduct market research and supplier evaluations to identify potential suppliers Developing and implementing sourcing strategies to optimize cost, quality and delivery Negotiating contracts and terms with suppliers to ensure favorable commercial conditions and capacity Managing supplier relationships and performance to drive continuous improvement Collaborating with internal stakeholders to understand sourcing needs and requirements Monitoring market trends and industry development to identify opportunities for efficiencies and/or risk management Developing cost control, change control, and parts and service support for goods and services procured Management of piece price and supplier data within EDI system Management of program and project launches within specified commodity Performs other related duties as assigned. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities for Success Knowledge of the commercial truck/automotive market Experience in Chassis and Suspension commodities Ability to perform financial analysis as it pertains to supplier selection, and business case approval Excellent written and oral communication skills Ability to perform in a competitive, fast-paced environment Working technical knowledge of the goods or services to be purchased Must be able to travel 10% - 15% Proficiency in MS Office applications Basic Education and Experience Required Bachelor degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Finance or related field Minimum of 5+ years of purchasing/procurement experience 7 years equivalent experience without a degree All candidates must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States and will be required to provide proof of employment eligibility at the time of hire. Preferred Experience Master's Degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management or Finance or related field We Value Ability to anticipate and understand customer needs and provide guidance Excellent interpersonal and customer relationship skills to handle difficult and sensitive matters. Strong project management skills. Exposure to difficult or complex projects a plus. Ability to influence stakeholders Effective communication and ability to communicate complex details in a clear manner. Flexible workspaces and work hours that help you unleash the best you. Working in a collaborative team and balancing the needs of individual stakeholders while delivering corporate objectives. Includes Continued Professional Development Benefits including medical, dental and vision insurance, 14 paid holidays, vacation time and 401k matching Blue Bird is an equal opportunity employer and makes employment decisions on the basis of merit. We strive to have the best available talent in every job based on the Knowledge, Skills and Abilities each person brings. Blue Bird is committed to compliance with all applicable laws providing equal employment opportunities. This commitment applies to all persons involved in Company operations and prohibits unlawful discrimination in all forms. All candidates must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States and will be required to provide proof of employment eligibility at the time of hire.