Position Summary:
The Intermediate Buyer is responsible for developing and managing the indirect supply base for professional services and IT projects including negotiating pricing, terms, and agreements for materials essential to the production of Cooper Standard products and business operations. This role focuses on optimizing costs, implementing effective supply chain strategies, and ensuring compliance with company pricing and terms & conditions agreements to drive operational efficiency and support business objectives.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Management of the professional services commodity for the countries of the United States and Canada. In addition, supporting projects for the information technology commodity.
• At times there will be support for other commodities on an as needed basis for the department.
• Execute and sustain commodity strategies while collaborating cross-functionally with Manufacturing, Sales, and Engineering teams to align purchasing decisions with business needs.
• Analyze key market dynamics and commodity trends, including raw materials, to ensure cost competitiveness and informed decision-making.
• Identify and lead lean savings initiatives through active participation in cross-functional teams and supply chain projects.
• Manage the supply base to ensure alignment with business requirements, cost parameters, and compliance with terms and agreements.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key internal stakeholders and external suppliers to foster collaboration and innovation.
• Assist in conducting annual supplier business reviews to strengthen strategic partnerships and enhance Cooper Standard's performance metrics.
• Proactively support the resolution of critical supply chain issues while maintaining positive supplier relationships.
• Maintain and organize commercial documents and records as required for compliance and operational efficiency.

Education and Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in supply chain management, Business Administration, or a related field; or 3+ years of relevant experience in purchasing or supply chain.
• Proven experience leading negotiations with a track record of achieving favorable outcomes.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to seek guidance when necessary.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Experience working in diverse or cross-functional teams is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes or technical expertise is preferred.
• Ability to analyze data strategically and create competitive intelligence for the respective commodities. Strong excel skills are a plus.
• Strong ability to adapt to new technologies
• Strong ability in reviewing contractual agreements for key terms and conditions including prices, payment terms, length of contracts, and exit clauses.

Work Environment/Work Conditions:

• Professional office environment with occasional travel to manufacturing facilities or customer locations as required.
• Adherence to safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) while on the manufacturing floor.
• Training on equipment safety and injury prevention is mandatory.

Cooper Standard is proud of its diverse workforce and committed to providing equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, genetic information, physical or mental disability, age, veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. We are dedicated to creating an environment at work that not only values diversity but also encourages inclusion and a sense of belonging. We firmly believe that a diverse workplace fosters an environment where our employees can flourish and provide superior service to our customers.

Because we recognize and value the range of ways in which people acquire experiences, whether via personal, professional, education, or volunteerism, we invite interested applicants to evaluate the key duties and requirements and apply for any opportunities that fit your experience and qualifications.

Applicants with disabilities may be entitled to reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act, as well as certain state and/or local laws. If you believe you require such assistance to complete our online application or to participate in an interview, you (or someone on your behalf) may request assistance by emailing recruitment@cooperstandard.com with a description of the accommodation you seek. Application materials submitted to this email address will not be considered.