Sourcing Manager
The Sourcing Manager – US Operations reports to the Manager Procurement and participates in multidisciplinary teams (Sales, Engineering, Procurement, and Production) responsible for localizing parts and services for North American operations.
Purpose of the Role
As Sourcing Manager – US Operations, you are responsible for establishing and optimizing a new, predominantly localized supply chain in North America. You play a key role in building a robust supply network aligned with the strategic objectives and Localization Policy of Terberg Special Vehicles, in close collaboration with local stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
1. Local Supply Chain Development
a. Analyze the local supplier market for required products and services.
b. Develop supply chain strategies focused on local sourcing, in consultation with Project Manager Procurement – US Operations, Category Managers and internal stakeholders.
c. Prepare and execute annual plans for localization, considering all supply chain aspects such as tariffs, transport costs, and lead times.
d. Analyze and manage risks within the local supply chain.
e. Advise on make-or-buy decisions.
2. Localization of the Supply Chain
a. Identify and select local suppliers.
b. Coordinate sourcing activities with local buyers.
c. Negotiate contracts and terms, in consultation with Project Manager Procurement – US Operations.
d. Assess suppliers on safety, quality, reliability, and total cost.
3. Vendor Management
a. Take ownership of vendor management for all local suppliers.
b. Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, ensuring compliance with Terberg’s standards and policies.
c. Monitor supplier performance, address issues, and drive continuous improvement.
d. Coordinate onboarding of new suppliers and manage escalation of operational issues, in consultation with Project Manager Procurement – US Operations.
e. Maintain accurate records and information regarding supplier requests, quotations, agreements, and conditions in all relevant systems and databases.
4. Stakeholder Management
a. Represent the Procurement department in various localization projects.
b. Maintain relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
c. Collaborate with operational teams to address practical challenges.
d. Work closely with Project Product Manager Procurement and Engineering regarding design changes required by local requirements and specifications.
5. Bridge Function Between US and Netherlands
a. Report to headquarters on progress and results.
b. Translate local insights into global procurement policy.
c. Bridge cultural and business differences.
6. Monitoring & Reporting
a. Establish and monitor KPIs (cost, lead time, quality).
b. Report on performance and improvement opportunities.
c. Continuously improve processes based on facts and data.
d. Report on progress of local sourcing and supply chain initiatives.
7. Additional Tasks
a. Achieve short-term results (hands-on).
b. Manage procurement and logistics activities during emergencies.
c. Resolve operational bottlenecks in the supply chain when escalated.
Role Characteristics
· Strategic & Results-Oriented: Translates market trends into effective sourcing strategies and achieves measurable KPIs.
· Negotiation & Persuasion Skills: Reaches sustainable win-win agreements with suppliers and stakeholders.
· Communicative & Connecting: Easily switches between operational and executive levels; builds trust and collaboration.
· Intercultural Awareness: Navigates effectively between American and Dutch work cultures.
· Analytical & Problem-Solving: Makes data-driven decisions and pragmatically resolves bottlenecks.
· Leadership: Takes initiative, leads local teams and suppliers, and knows how to connect and inspire.
· Stress-Resistant & Flexible: Remains effective under pressure, with frequent travel and unexpected challenges.
Risk Factors
The Sourcing Manager – US Operations carries the risk of causing financial, reputational, or relationship damage to the organization through actions or omissions.
Physical Aspects
- Local US-presence is required to build a network.
- Regular supplier visits, both domestic and international, may be physically demanding due to travel and jet lag.
- Attendance at trade shows and events is important to stay updated on market trends, which can involve long days.
- Participation in conferences and training may also require travel.
- The role can be stressful due to deadlines and responsibilities.
Candidate Profile
- Minimum 10 years of experience in procurement of products and services in the North American market at tactical and strategic levels; deep understanding of US business culture.
- Proactive with a strong sense for process optimization and financial insight.
- Excellent negotiation and communication skills; strong in organization, presentation, planning, and coaching.
- Bachelor’s degree required (Business, Supply Chain, Engineering, or related field).
- Advanced procurement certification preferred, such as CPSM (Institute for Supply Management), CSCP (ASCM/APICS), or equivalent international qualification (e.g., NEVI 2, CIPS Level 5/6).
- Excellent command of English (spoken and written) is required. Proficiency in Dutch is an advantage.
Benefits
- 10 Holidays
- 3 Weeks of Accrued Vacation
- 8 Hours Medical Time
- 401k / Roth with Employer Match
- Bereavement
- Employer Paid Life
- Health Insurance
- Voluntary Insurance Options
- Flexible Spending
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Note: This job description is a characterization of the tasks to be performed and is not exhaustive. The incumbent is expected to loyally perform all reasonable tasks assigned.
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