Supplier Manager

About the Role:

The Supplier Manager will play a key role in managing the supply chain of a Tier 1 contract manufacturer. You will serve as the direct liaison between Aviat's Supplier Managers for multiple product lines and the Tier 1 contract manufacturer. You'll be responsible for ensuring the timely and cost-effective supply of components and materials for our Eclipse, CTR, NEC, and Access product lines, as well as the Aviat Store.

The Supplier Manager will be responsible for managing the contract manufacturer's manufacturing schedules, ensuring on-time delivery. This role will manage the supplier's activities related to material planning, procurement, inventory control, and logistics to support the company's business plan at an optimal cost, quality, and delivery. The Supplier Manager is the liaison between the Aviat supply chain organization and the contract manufacturer, collaborating with internal teams such as Planning, Order Fulfillment, Engineering, Quality, and New Product Introduction (NPI).

This role will work closely with the Aviat Planning and Sales teams to manage material purchases from the Tier 1 supplier for the Aviat Store and Access product lines.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement effective supply chain strategies.
• Evaluate quarterly quotes and provide management with strategic recommendations.
• Negotiate with suppliers on price, delivery, quality, and service.
• Ensure the seamless execution of all business awards, from purchase order issuance to final customer delivery.
• Collaborate with suppliers to resolve issues, including damage claims, returns, over-shipments, cancellations, and engineering changes.
• Assess and rate the production capability, performance, and delivery of suppliers and sub-tier suppliers.
• Work with the Planning team to generate forecast requirements and deliver periodic trend reports.
• Conduct Quarterly Business Reviews with the Tier 1 contract manufacturer to evaluate performance and progress.
• Work with suppliers to optimize delivery schedules and reduce lead times.
• Recommend and enforce procurement policies and practices to ensure goods and services are acquired at the best possible cost.
• Optimize overall inventory levels of purchased stock to enhance production efficiency and minimize financial investment, ensuring alignment with business objectives.
• Actively participate in source selection and negotiation processes as required.
• Cultivate and nurture mutually beneficial supplier partnerships.
• Establish and track key procurement metrics to manage and enhance the performance of the procurement organization.
• Effectively balance strategic thinking with tactical execution to achieve program performance objectives.
• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications & Competencies:

• Bachelor's degree in business, supply chain, engineering, or a directly related field. Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive responsibility in procurement, inventory management, supply chain, production planning, and master scheduling.
• At least 3 years of experience in a managerial role.
• Previous experience in supplier management.
• Excellent management, analytical, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Extensive knowledge of sound procurement practices.
• Ability to effectively interact with individuals at all levels both internally and externally and make informed decisions in complex situations.
• Demonstrated strong project management skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.).
• Experience with ERP systems; Oracle experience is a plus.
• Familiarity with the development, implementation, and management of Vendor Managed Inventory programs, a plus.