Lead Procurement Specialist

Driving Innovation Through Strategic Procurement

With a legacy of over seventy years, Communications & Power Industries has significantly influenced various sectors through its advanced product offerings. Our meticulously engineered solutions are fundamental to contemporary commercial and military communication frameworks, contribute to cancer treatment, aid in medical diagnostics, and support defense personnel, while also facilitating scientific advancements and ensuring food safety.

Headquartered in Plano, Texas, CPI operates as a global leader in manufacturing electronic components and subsystems, with production facilities across North America, Europe, and Asia. Our commitment to technological excellence allows us to serve diverse markets including communications, defense, medical, industrial, and scientific sectors.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee and execute procurement orders for critical commodities and services, focusing on enhancing supplier quality and minimizing total ownership costs.
• Draft and issue purchase agreements of varying complexity, ensuring all procurement actions are thoroughly documented and approved.
• Identify and address risks during negotiations regarding terms and conditions.
• Collaborate with Operations Program Managers and Supplier Quality teams to resolve supplier-related issues and enhance supplier performance.
• Coordinate purchasing efforts with internal stakeholders to guarantee timely and cost-effective acquisition of products and services.
• Assist in proposal activities by providing innovative solutions that align with program requirements.
• Process purchase requisitions and manage purchase order revisions and requests for quotes.
• Conduct cost or price analysis on significant procurements to ensure value and risk management.
• Negotiate and document procurement terms, conditions, pricing, and performance expectations.
• Monitor procurement cost, schedule, and scope to maintain quality and value.
• Develop new supplier sources when current suppliers are uncompetitive and propose cost-saving alternatives.
• Engage with suppliers and Quality Assurance to address quality concerns and maintain effective communication regarding material status.
• Foster productive relationships internally and externally, potentially coordinating the activities of other team members.
• Lead initiatives for continuous improvement aimed at material standardization and cost reduction.
• Participate in proposal planning and kickoff meetings, collaborating with functional teams to acquire the latest Bill of Materials (BOM).
• Provide insights into procurement strategies, including make/buy analysis and supplier qualifications.
• Conduct supplier audits and support compliance audits as necessary.
• Mentor and guide junior supply chain professionals, promoting a culture of continuous improvement.

Qualifications:

• A minimum of 6+ years of relevant experience in procurement and supply chain management within a manufacturing context, preferably in satellite antenna production.
• Post-secondary education in Supply Chain Management or Purchasing; APICS/ASCM certification is advantageous.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and specifications effectively.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word).
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with strong verbal and written communication abilities.
• Experience with JDE or similar ERP systems is highly beneficial.
• Comprehensive knowledge of assigned commodities and strong decision-making capabilities.
• Proven ability to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-oriented environment while demonstrating initiative and independent judgment.
• Exceptional negotiation skills with a focus on creating mutually beneficial outcomes.
• Thorough understanding of supply management and government contractor purchasing requirements, with the ability to apply Federal Acquisition Requirements/DFAR in procurement activities.
• Strong analytical skills and the capability to lead and mentor a small team.
• This position may require access to technology regulated under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). The successful candidate must meet the definition of a "U.S. Person" as outlined under ITAR and EAR.

Compensation and Benefits:

CPI offers a competitive compensation package along with comprehensive benefits, including health and wellness programs, career development opportunities, and a generous retirement savings plan with company matching.

Company Culture:

At CPI, we value the diverse skills and backgrounds of our employees, fostering an inclusive environment that encourages innovation and collaboration. We are committed to equal employment opportunities and respect for all individuals, recognizing that diversity enhances our workplace and contributes to our success.