Strategic Sourcing Analyst - Supplier Tooling

Job Overview

We are seeking a resourceful Strategic Sourcing Analyst – Supplier Tooling Management for North America region, to develop, deploy and implement supplier tooling lifecycle management process and strategy.  Reporting to the Manager, Supplier Development, you will be driving tooling KPIs, technical discussions, cost estimates and negotiating cost-effective contracts with key suppliers.

This role ensures the availability of high-quality tooling while optimizing cost, supplier performance, and operational efficiency. The position focuses on sustaining current production tooling by coordinating with suppliers, engineering, and production teams to manage tooling lifecycle, emergency repairs (expect Maintenance), replacements and Duplications. Demonstrate solid knowledge on tool design, building up, 53 P process, negotiation strategies and extensive experience in a similar role. 

What your background should look like:

ACTIVITIES:

•Define, deploy and execute tooling strategy by category and technology in coordination with ME
•Supplier capability evaluation based on technical assessment and business performance, build supplier capability matrix
•Source and purchase tooling, dies, molds, assemblies and related components following TE sourcing process to support ongoing production inside of TE facilities or/and TE suppliers. Award business for external equipment to tooling suppliers to ensure specification requirements, budget, and project timelines are met (on time, on quality, on cost)
• Evaluate sourcing procedures and present improvement strategies to senior management for approval.
•Support Manufacturing Engineering as well as NPI in identifying potential sources to cover tech/localization GAPS. 
• Develop and maintain strong partnerships and negotiate favorable terms.
• Conduct supplier evaluations and manage vendor performance metrics.
•Support on the deployment of the Digital Tooling Tracker
•Develop preventive maintenance guidelines and execute maintenance agreements
• Oversee the lifecycle management of tooling, ensuring timely repairs, refurbishments, and replacements.
• Collaborate with manufacturing and engineering teams to troubleshoot tooling issues and implement corrective actions.
• Work with suppliers to improve tooling durability and performance while reducing downtime.
• Supporting injection Molding Process 53P and tooling approval.

REQUIREMENTS:

•  Bachelor's degree in mechanical or electrical Engineering, Business, technician / industrial Master or a related field.
•    Initial experience in Procurement. Manufacturing engineering in the automotive Industry, technical understanding and experience in tooling / Plastics molding, injection molding, stamping, Die-casting, and Assembly.
•    5-7 years of experience in procurement, tooling, or manufacturing environments.
•    Basic knowledge of automotive standards (APQP, IATF 16949)
•    Experience with international tool transfer (preferred) 
 
Technical & Soft Skills:

•    Strong understanding of tooling processes, materials, and supplier management.
•    Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems (SAP, etc.)
•    Advanced ability to read technical drawings and specifications.
•    Strong negotiation, communication, and analytical skills.
•    Ability to work in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment.
•    Problem-solving mindset with a focus on continuous improvement.
•    Languages: English fluent in written and speaking, Additional language proficiency is a plus.
•    Willingness to travel (10-25%)

Competencies