Director of Procurement (Southfield)

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.