US Procurement Director – Direct Materials Purchasing - Hybrid Transmissions & Engines
Our client is seeking an experienced procurement leader to establish and grow its North American direct materials purchasing function, with a particular focus on hybrid transmissions, engines, driveline systems, and broader powertrain components.
This is a high-impact opportunity for an individual who combines deep technical understanding of hybrid propulsion systems with strong commercial leadership across the North American automotive supply base.
The successful candidate will play a critical role in building supplier relationships, localizing sourcing strategies, improving cost competitiveness, and acting as the bridge between North American operations and global engineering and manufacturing teams.
Key Priorities
- Lead sourcing strategy across hybrid transmissions, engines, driveline, castings, forgings, machining, bearings, seals, electronics, and related powertrain commodities
- Develop and manage supplier relationships across the North American engine and transmission supply base
- Drive supplier localization, cost reduction, and industrialization initiatives
- Support launch readiness for new vehicle and propulsion programs
- Partner closely with engineering, manufacturing, finance, quality, and operations teams
- Manage RFQs, supplier negotiations, commercial agreements, and sourcing decisions
- Build sourcing strategies that balance cost, quality, timing, and risk
- Support global supplier coordination, including regular interaction with teams and vendors across Asia, Europe, and North America
- Help establish and scale the North American procurement organization over time
Ideal Background
- Significant experience in direct materials procurement within the automotive sector
- Strong understanding of hybrid transmissions, engine systems, driveline, or propulsion-related commodities
- Experience working with OEMs or major automotive suppliers supporting OEM customers
- Deep familiarity with the North American engine and transmission supply chain
- Proven success managing large supplier portfolios, sourcing strategies, and cost reduction programs
- Strong commercial acumen with experience leading RFQs, supplier negotiations, contracts, and sourcing decisions
- Experience working across international supply chains and supplier networks
- Comfortable operating in a fast-paced, high-growth environment
- Bachelor’s degree required; engineering or supply chain background preferred
Preferred Experience
- Hybrid transmission systems
- Electrified propulsion systems
- North American engine supply chain
- Supplier localization and industrialization
- China, Mexico, or broader international supplier exposure
- SAP or similar ERP systems
This is an opportunity to join a growing organization at an exciting stage of expansion, with the ability to shape both the supplier network and the future direction of the North American procurement function.
