- Senior
- Optionales Büro in Gastonia
About U.S. Cotton
At U.S. Cotton, we pride ourselves on being the leading manufacturer of high-quality cotton products. Our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and excellence drives us to deliver exceptional value to our customers. With a rich history and a forward-thinking approach, we offer a dynamic and inclusive work environment where employees can thrive and grow. Join us and be part of a team dedicated to making a positive impact in the industry and beyond.
At U.S. Cotton, we pride ourselves on being the leading manufacturer of high-quality cotton products. Our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and excellence drives us to deliver exceptional value to our customers. With a rich history and a forward-thinking approach, we offer a dynamic and inclusive work environment where employees can thrive and grow. Join us and be part of a team dedicated to making a positive impact in the industry and beyond.
Position Summary
The Purchasing Manager is responsible for developing and executing sourcing strategies that deliver cost savings, supply reliability, supplier innovation, and working capital optimization. This role leads supplier development, value engineering initiatives, and risk management while building strong cross-functional alignment across supply chain, operations, R&D, and finance.
The Purchasing Manager is responsible for developing and executing sourcing strategies that deliver cost savings, supply reliability, supplier innovation, and working capital optimization. This role leads supplier development, value engineering initiatives, and risk management while building strong cross-functional alignment across supply chain, operations, R&D, and finance.
Key Responsibilities
Supplier Development & Performance
Supplier Development & Performance
- Build and manage a high-performing supplier base, driving innovation, cost, and sustainability improvements.
- Conduct supplier audits, implement scorecards, and drive corrective action where required.
Strategic Sourcing & Cost Optimization
- Lead sourcing projects and negotiations across assigned categories (raw materials, packaging, indirect).
- Utilize total cost of ownership (TCO), benchmarking, and e-sourcing tools to deliver measurable cost savings.
Working Capital & Financial Contribution
- Collaborate with Finance to manage payment terms, supplier financing, and inventory strategies.
- Track and report cost savings, cost avoidance, and procurement ROI contributions to EBITDA.
Value Analysis / Value Engineering (VAVE)
- Partner with R&D and operations to identify cost-down and value-enhancement opportunities.
- Lead projects on material substitution, packaging redesign, and SKU harmonization.
Risk & Compliance Management
- Ensure adherence to ethical sourcing, quality, safety, and sustainability standards.
- Maintain supply continuity plans and supplier risk assessments.
Leadership & Stakeholder Management
- Provide procurement expertise to cross-functional project teams and site operations.
- Lead, coach, and develop direct reports and procurement analysts.
- Report key metrics, savings, risks, and opportunities to executive leadership.
- Up to 20% travel required
Required Experience
- 8--12 years of procurement experience in FMCG/CPG, with at least 3 years in a managerial role.
- Proven track record in supplier development, cost savings delivery, and VAVE initiatives.
- Strong financial acumen (working capital, TCO, hedging).
- Experience with global sourcing, commodity markets, and supply chain risk management.
Education
- Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Engineering, Business, or related field required.
- MBA preferred.
Skills
- Strategic sourcing and negotiation expertise.
- Supplier relationship management (SRM).
- Working capital optimization.
- VAVE / cost engineering.
- Cross-functional leadership and collaboration.
- Risk and compliance management.
- Continuous improvement and lean mindset.
Preferred Knowledge
- Prior procurement experience in manufacturing or consumer goods industries.
- Familiarity with e-sourcing platforms and advanced procurement analytics.
Call to Action
- If you are a results-driven procurement professional with a passion for innovation, supplier excellence, and driving measurable impact, we invite you to apply and be part of U.S. Cotton's journey to build a stronger, more sustainable future.
