Associate Director - Procurement (Finance)

ABOUT SUBARU

LOVE. It's what makes Subaru, Subaru®. As a leading auto brand in the US, we strive to be More Than a Car Company®. Subaru believes in being a positive force in the communities in which we live and work, not just with donations but with actions that set an example for others to follow. That's what we call our Subaru Love Promise®.

Subaru is a globally renowned automobile manufacturer known for its commitment to innovation, safety, and sustainability. With a rich history dating back to 1953, Subaru has consistently pushed the boundaries of automotive engineering to deliver vehicles that offer not only exceptional performance but also a unique blend of utility and adventure.

Subaru's company culture is built on collaboration, diversity, and a shared passion for our product. We foster an inclusive environment that encourages employees to bring their unique perspectives and talents to the table. Our team members are driven by a common goal: to create exceptional vehicles that inspire and delight our customers.

SUMMARY

The Associate Director of Procurement will play a pivotal role in establishing and leading Subaru's new indirect procurement department, focusing on optimizing strategies and processes across key categories like Marketing, IT, Facilities, and Professional Services. This leadership position is responsible for driving cost-effective purchasing, supplier management, and risk mitigation, while fostering strong cross-functional collaboration. The ideal candidate will develop innovative sourcing strategies, ensure compliance with company policies, and build a high-performing team to support the organization's procurement objectives. This role is essential for advancing Subaru's procurement capabilities and delivering value across the enterprise.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

• Department Development: Build and structure the new indirect procurement department, establishing policies, processes, and best practices for indirect spend management (with a focus on Marketing, IT, Facilities, and Professional Services categories).
• Category and Sourcing Strategy: Develop and execute procurement strategies aligned with corporate objectives, focusing on cost reduction, quality improvement, and risk management for indirect spend categories.
• Supplier Management: Develop a supplier management program with key suppliers to maintain and develop supplier relationships and analyze industry trends and evolving technology to proactively identify supply base issues to minimize risk, protect continuity of supply, and utilize emerging opportunities.
• Collaboration: Work closely with internal departments such as Legal, Sales, Marketing, Fixed Operations, and other departments across Subaru of America (SOA) to understand procurement needs and drive initiatives that enhance operational efficiency.
• Budget Management: Oversee the procurement budget, ensuring adherence to financial goals and savings targets.
• Data Analysis: Utilize data analytics to assess procurement performance and market trends, making informed decisions to enhance the purchasing process for indirect spend.
• Team Leadership: Recruit, train, and mentor procurement staff, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Compliance: Ensure all procurement activities comply with company policies and industry regulations.
• RFx Process Management: Manage the RFx and negotiation process, including Requests for Information (RFI), Requests for Quotation (RFQ), and Requests for Proposal (RFP), to ensure thorough evaluation and selection of suppliers
• Performance Metrics: Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the success of procurement activities and drive accountability within the team.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Evaluate the current network of contracts, vendors, and providers to ensure alignment with company expectations.
• Refine and renegotiate existing contracts and agreements as necessary.
• Work closely with the Legal department on contracts, agreements, and SOW terms with partners across multiple functions.
• Represent SOA at automotive procurement conferences and forums.
• Identify and assist in the implementation of procurement software.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the procurement function, leveraging new technologies and best practices to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND PERSONAL QUALIFICATIONS

• Education: Bachelor's degree in business, Supply Chain Management, or a related field; master's degree preferred.
• Certifications: Certified Procurement Professional (CPP), Certified Purchasing Manager (CMP), and/or Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification desired in ideal candidate.
• Experience: 12+ years of progressive procurement experience, with at least 5 years in aleadership role within a large matrixed organization, preferably in automotive or manufacturing sectors.
• Expertise: In-depth knowledge of procurement processes focused on indirect spend, category management, and supplier relationship management.
• Negotiation Skills: Strong proven track record of successful negotiations and contract management.
• Analytical Skills: Strong analytical capabilities with experience in data-driven decision-making and risk assessment.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with stakeholders at all levels.
• Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with procurement software and ERP systems; proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS: BA/BS degree with 15+ years experience.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Hybrid Role: Remote work 2 days per week (After 90 Days Onboarding)
• Required Travel: 20%

COMPENSATION: The recruiting base salary range for this full-time position is $131,400 - 187,700 / year. Within the range, individual pay is determined by factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. (Internal Job Grade: D1) In addition to competitive salary, Subaru offers an amazing benefits package that includes:

• Medical, Dental, Vision Plans
• Pension, Profit Sharing, and 401K Match Offerings
• 15 Vacation days, 9 Company Holidays, 5 Floating Holidays, and 5 Sick days.
• Tuition Reimbursement Program
• Vehicle Discount Programs
• Visit our Careers landing page for additional information about our compensation and benefit programs.