Senior Director, Strategic Sourcing at Highline Warren

Company Overview
Highline Warren is a leading manufacturer and distributor in the North American automotive aftermarket industry, specializing in high-quality lubricants, chemicals, parts, accessories, and service equipment and supplies for vehicle maintenance and enhancement. Our commitment to innovation, customer satisfaction, and supply chain excellence drives our success in a dynamic and competitive market.

Position Summary
The Senior Director of Strategic Sourcing will lead the development and execution of comprehensive sourcing strategies to ensure best-cost, high-quality procurement of automotive aftermarket parts and materials for our 26,000+ customers. This senior leadership role involves overseeing global supplier relationships, driving cost savings initiatives, mitigating supply chain risks, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to support category & margin growth. The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in the automotive industry, with a focus on aftermarket products such as filters, tools, maintenance and repair items, and performance accessories. This role stands out in the larger Supply Chain Organization in terms of Spend Under Management (SUM), both execution and ownership, as well as value creation for Highline Warren, which allows us to maintain our unique position in the automotive aftermarket.

Key Responsibilities
Develop and implement a multi-year strategic sourcing roadmap for automotive aftermarket categories, aligning with organizational goals, market trends, and technological advancements.
Lead supplier identification, evaluation, negotiation, and contract management to secure optimal terms, including pricing, quality, delivery, and sustainability.
Conduct in-depth global market analysis to identify emerging opportunities, assess supplier capabilities, and proactively address supply base risks, ensuring continuity and resilience in the supply chain.
Drive annual cost savings targets through strategic initiatives, such as RFP/RFQs, Make vs Buy, VA/VE, and COO placement, while maintaining or improving product quality.
Manage and mentor a team of sourcing professionals, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration, and professional development.
Collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders, including supply chain, quality assurance, category management, operations, logistics, and finance, to integrate sourcing strategies into broader business operations.
Monitor supplier performance through regular reviews, scorecards, and audits, implementing corrective actions as needed to ensure compliance with standards and contractual obligations.
Evaluate and mitigate risks associated with global sourcing, including geopolitical factors, tariffs, supply disruptions, and regulatory changes in the automotive sector.
Utilize data analytics and tools (e.g., ERP systems, spend analysis software, Power BI) to inform decision-making, forecast trends, and report on sourcing metrics.
Champion sustainable and ethical sourcing practices, including supplier diversity programs and environmental compliance, to enhance the company�s reputation and long-term viability.
Stay abreast of industry trends in the automotive aftermarket, such as electrification, autonomous technologies, and aftermarket customization, to exploit new sourcing opportunities.

Required Qualifications
Bachelor�s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field; Master�s degree or MBA preferred.
8-10 years of progressive experience in strategic sourcing, procurement, or supply chain management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
Proven track record in or exposure to the automotive industry, preferably in the aftermarket segment, with experience managing categories like OEM-equivalent parts, accessories, and direct imports.
Demonstrated success in achieving significant cost reductions, negotiating complex contracts, and building resilient global supply chains.
Strong leadership and team management skills, with experience leading cross-functional and international teams.
Expertise in global sourcing practices, including RFP/RFQ processes, supplier relationship management (SRM), and risk assessment.
Proficiency in analytical tools and software, such as Microsoft Excel, COUPA, SAP, Oracle, or similar procurement platforms.
Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
Knowledge of relevant regulations, including trade compliance, quality standards (e.g., ISO/TS 16949), and sustainability requirements.

Preferred Qualifications
Professional certifications such as Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP), Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM), or equivalent.
Experience in the automotive aftermarket with specific knowledge of suppliers for parts like filtration systems, exhaust components, or diagnostic tools.
Familiarity with advanced technologies in supply chain management, including AI-driven forecasting and blockchain for traceability (RFID).
Bilingual or multilingual capabilities, particularly in languages relevant to key supplier regions (e.g., Mandarin, Spanish, Korean).

What We Offer
Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities.
A collaborative, innovative work environment with opportunities for career advancement.
Flexible work arrangements, including remote options where applicable.
We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.