Role Overview for VP, Sourcing & Vetting with an Industrial Equipment Co. – Milwaukee, WI
JRG Partners is proud to represent a premier, multi-billion dollar industrial equipment manufacturer in their search for a transformative Vice President of Sourcing & Vetting. Based in their corporate headquarters in Milwaukee, WI, this executive will serve as a cornerstone of the senior leadership team, reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer. Our client is a globally recognized leader, renowned for its commitment to innovation, quality, and operational excellence. They are seeking a visionary leader to revolutionize their global sourcing and supplier vetting functions, ensuring the supply chain is not just a cost center, but a strategic competitive advantage.
This is a career-defining opportunity for a seasoned executive to shape the future of a complex, international supply chain. The VP of Sourcing & Vetting will be entrusted with developing and executing a comprehensive strategy that enhances supplier performance, mitigates risk, drives cost savings, and fosters innovation.
You will lead a high-caliber team of sourcing professionals, instilling a culture of continuous improvement, data-driven decision-making, and proactive partnership. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of the industrial manufacturing landscape, a proven track record of building and scaling global sourcing operations, and the executive presence to influence stakeholders across the organization, from the C-suite to the factory floor. Your leadership will directly impact the company’s profitability, product quality, and ability to navigate the complexities of the modern global market.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Sourcing & Vetting with an Industrial Equipment Co. – Milwaukee, WI
The Vice President of Sourcing & Vetting will have a broad and impactful scope of responsibilities, focusing on strategic leadership and operational execution. Success in this role requires a blend of analytical rigor, expert negotiation skills, and inspirational leadership.
Global Sourcing Strategy Development
Design, implement, and continuously refine the company’s global sourcing strategy for all direct and indirect materials, components, and services. This includes conducting comprehensive market analysis, identifying emerging trends, and aligning sourcing activities with overall business objectives to ensure a resilient and cost-effective supply base.
Supplier Vetting & Onboarding
Establish and oversee a world-class, rigorous supplier vetting and qualification process. This includes financial health assessments, quality system audits (e.g., ISO 9001), ethical sourcing compliance, and technical capability evaluations to ensure all partners meet the company’s stringent standards.
Supplier Relationship Management (SRM)
Champion a robust SRM program to cultivate strategic, long-term partnerships with key suppliers. Develop performance scorecards, conduct regular business reviews, and foster collaborative initiatives focused on innovation, quality improvement, and total cost reduction.
Cost Management & Negotiation
Lead all major contract negotiations and develop sophisticated negotiation strategies to achieve favorable terms, pricing, and conditions. Implement cost-modeling, value analysis, and should-costing techniques to drive significant and sustainable cost savings across the supply chain.
Risk Mitigation & Supply Chain Resiliency
Develop and deploy a proactive risk management framework to identify, assess, and mitigate potential supply chain disruptions. This includes geopolitical risk, single-source vulnerabilities, financial instability of suppliers, and logistical challenges. Implement dual-sourcing strategies and contingency plans where appropriate.
Team Leadership & Development
Lead, mentor, and develop a global team of sourcing managers, buyers, and analysts. Foster a culture of excellence, accountability, and professional growth. Set clear objectives, provide regular feedback, and build a talent pipeline for future leadership roles within the organization.
Process & Technology Optimization
Drive the adoption of best-in-class strategic sourcing methodologies and technologies. Evaluate and implement advanced sourcing tools, e-procurement platforms, and data analytics solutions to enhance visibility, efficiency, and decision-making capabilities.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Work closely with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, and Product Development teams to support new product introductions (NPI) and ensure alignment on material specifications, cost targets, and supplier selection. Serve as the key interface between the supply base and internal stakeholders.
Requirements for the VP, Sourcing & Vetting with an Industrial Equipment Co. – Milwaukee, WI
We are seeking a highly accomplished and strategic leader with a demonstrated history of success in complex, global manufacturing environments. The specific qualifications for this executive role include:
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is highly preferred.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in strategic sourcing, procurement, and supply chain management, with at least 7 years in a senior leadership capacity (Director level or above) overseeing a global team.
Industry Expertise
Deep experience within the industrial equipment, heavy machinery, automotive, aerospace, or a related complex manufacturing sector is essential. Must have experience with sourcing a wide range of commodities, including castings, forgings, complex machined parts, hydraulics, and electronic components.
Global Sourcing Acumen
Proven success in developing and managing a global supply base, with extensive experience sourcing from North America, Europe, and Asia. Must be well-versed in global logistics, trade compliance, and international business practices.
Negotiation & Contractual Skills
Master-level negotiation skills with a proven ability to structure, negotiate, and manage complex, multi-million dollar supplier agreements. Deep understanding of contract law and intellectual property protection.
Analytical & Financial Skills
Strong financial acumen and advanced analytical skills. Proficient in total cost of ownership (TCO) analysis, make-or-buy decisions, and leveraging data to drive strategic insights and outcomes.
Technical Proficiency
Hands-on experience with large-scale ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and advanced procurement/sourcing software solutions.
Leadership Qualities
Exceptional leadership and communication skills with the ability to inspire a team, build consensus, and influence stakeholders at all levels of a global organization. A strategic thinker with a hands-on, results-oriented approach.
Travel
Willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally as required (estimated 25-30%).
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier executive talent by offering a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package. This includes:
Executive Compensation
A competitive base salary complemented by a significant annual performance-based bonus and a long-term incentive plan (equity/stock options).
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
A full suite of benefits including premium medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents, as well as robust wellness programs.
Retirement Savings
A 401(k) plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future.
Paid Time Off
A generous vacation, holiday, and sick leave policy to support a healthy work-life balance.
Professional Development
A dedicated budget for executive coaching, continuing education, and industry conference attendance to foster your continued growth.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the successful candidate and their family.
Additional Perks
Includes life insurance, disability coverage, and other executive-level perquisites.
How to Apply
This is an exclusive search being conducted by JRG Partners. If you are a transformative supply chain executive ready to make a significant impact on a global industry leader, we encourage you to apply. To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience. For more information about our expertise in this area, please visit the JRG Partners’ Industrial and Manufacturing Practice page. We look forward to reviewing your qualifications.
