Lead Buyer

Job Summary

We’re looking for a Lead Buyer to lead strategic procurement activities that support manufacturing operations, supplier performance, and cost management objectives. In this role, you will drive sourcing initiatives, manage supplier relationships, support inventory optimization, and collaborate across the business to ensure materials and services are delivered on time, at the right quality, and at the best overall value.

Work That Matters

At Chromalloy, your work directly supports aviation safety and reliability. Our teams repair and manufacture critical aerospace components used across the global aviation industry. Whether you're improving processes, supporting operations, solving technical challenges, or driving business performance, your contributions help keep aircraft flying safely around the world.

Location: Phoenix, AZ

Schedule: On-site

What You’ll Be Doing

• Lead sourcing and procurement activities to support production, repair operations, and business objectives.
• Manage supplier relationships, identify new sourcing opportunities, and conduct competitive bid processes to ensure cost, quality, and delivery targets are achieved.
• Partner with Planning, Operations, and Production Control teams to maintain inventory parameters, material availability, and ERP/MRP data accuracy.
• Oversee purchase order execution, supplier follow-up, issue resolution, and procurement-related support for internal and external customers.
• Lead negotiations for pricing, terms, contracts, supplier agreements, and capital expenditure projects.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on procurement processes, supplier performance, inventory optimization, and system accuracy.
• Monitor and improve supplier metrics, including on-time delivery, fill rate, quality performance, and responsiveness.
• Support make-versus-buy decisions through supplier analysis, cost evaluations, and sourcing recommendations.
• Assess supplier capabilities, financial stability, and business risks while developing mitigation strategies when necessary.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Manufacturing, Planning, Quality, and Global Sourcing teams to support strategic business initiatives.
• Develop reporting, governance, and compliance processes to ensure procurement activities align with company policies and requirements

What We’re Looking For

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, or a related field.
• 8+ years of purchasing, sourcing, or procurement experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Proven experience in strategic sourcing, supplier negotiations, and supplier relationship management.
• Experience leading capital expense procurement projects and contract negotiations.
• Strong knowledge of ERP/MRP systems such as Epicor, SAP, NetSuite, or equivalent platforms.
• Understanding of manufacturing processes, including machined components, assemblies, electronics, or aerospace products.
• Knowledge of supplier quality requirements and regulatory standards, including AS9100, ITAR, and DFARS.
• Strong analytical skills with advanced Microsoft Excel proficiency.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a matrixed organization while managing multiple priorities.

Nice to Have

• Aerospace, defense, or advanced manufacturing industry experience.
• APICS CPIM or related supply chain certification.
• Experience implementing continuous improvement initiatives within procurement or supply chain functions.
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, 5S, and inventory optimization principles.
• Experience developing supplier performance programs and strategic sourcing roadmaps.
• Demonstrated project leadership experience with a track record of delivering measurable business results.
• Ability to work independently, influence stakeholders, and drive results in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience supporting enterprise-wide sourcing initiatives and supplier consolidation strategies.