Role Overview for Chief Procurement Officer with an Automotive Supplier – Charleston, SC
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, Tier 1 automotive supplier in their search for a visionary and results-driven Chief Procurement Officer (CPO). Based in the vibrant manufacturing hub of Charleston, South Carolina, this executive leadership role is critical to the company’s continued growth, profitability, and innovation. The CPO will be the principal architect of the global procurement and strategic sourcing strategy, responsible for managing a multi-billion dollar spend across a complex, international supply chain.
This is a transformative opportunity to lead a talented procurement organization through the dynamic shifts of the modern automotive industry, including the transition to electric vehicles (EVs), increasing digitalization, and navigating complex geopolitical landscapes. The ideal candidate will be a strategic leader with a deep understanding of the automotive sector, a proven track record of delivering significant cost savings, and the ability to build resilient, sustainable, and collaborative supplier partnerships. You will report directly to the Chief Executive Officer and be a key member of the executive leadership team, shaping the future direction and competitive advantage of the organization.
The CPO will be empowered to drive change, implement cutting-edge procurement technologies, and foster a culture of continuous improvement and excellence. Your leadership will directly impact the company’s bottom line, product quality, and ability to outmaneuver competitors in a fast-paced market. If you are a strategic procurement executive with a passion for the automotive industry and a desire to make a significant impact, we encourage you to apply.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Procurement Officer with an Automotive Supplier – Charleston, SC
The Chief Procurement Officer will have a broad and impactful scope of responsibilities, encompassing strategic direction, operational excellence, and team leadership.
Strategic Sourcing & Category Management:
- Develop, articulate, and execute a comprehensive global procurement strategy that aligns with the company’s long-term business objectives, including revenue growth, margin expansion, and market leadership.
- Lead the strategic sourcing of all direct and indirect materials, components, and services, including raw materials (steel, aluminum, resins), electronic components, capital equipment, and logistics.
- Implement and refine sophisticated category management strategies to optimize spend, consolidate suppliers, and leverage global purchasing power.
- Conduct in-depth market analysis and monitor commodity trends to anticipate price fluctuations and identify opportunities for strategic buys and hedging.
Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) & Performance:
- Champion a world-class SRM program to cultivate strategic, long-term partnerships with key suppliers, fostering innovation, collaboration, and mutual growth.
- Establish and manage a robust supplier performance management system, utilizing scorecards and KPIs to monitor quality, delivery, cost, and technological innovation.
- Lead high-stakes negotiations for global contracts and long-term agreements, ensuring favorable terms, pricing, and conditions for the company.
- Oversee a rigorous supplier selection and qualification process, ensuring all partners meet stringent quality, ethical, and compliance standards.
Cost Optimization & Financial Acumen:
- Drive a culture of cost-consciousness and lead initiatives to achieve aggressive year-over-year cost reduction and value improvement targets.
- Implement Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) models to ensure purchasing decisions optimize value over the entire lifecycle, not just the initial price.
- Develop and manage the annual procurement budget, providing accurate forecasting and regular reporting to the executive team and board of directors.
- Partner with the Finance department to manage working capital, optimize payment terms, and mitigate financial risks within the supply base.
Risk Management & Supply Chain Resilience:
- Design and implement a proactive supply chain risk management framework to identify, assess, and mitigate risks, including geopolitical instability, natural disasters, supplier bankruptcy, and logistical disruptions.
- Develop and maintain robust business continuity plans for critical components and suppliers to ensure uninterrupted production.
- Ensure absolute compliance with all regulatory, trade, and ethical sourcing requirements, including conflict minerals and sustainability standards.
Leadership & Team Development:
- Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing global procurement team, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous professional growth.
- Structure the procurement organization for maximum efficiency and effectiveness, ensuring clear roles, responsibilities, and career paths.
- Champion the adoption of digital procurement tools and technologies, including e-sourcing platforms, spend analytics, and Procure-to-Pay (P2P) systems, to drive data-driven decision-making.
Requirements for the Chief Procurement Officer with an Automotive Supplier – Charleston, SC
The successful candidate will possess a unique blend of strategic vision, operational expertise, and inspirational leadership, backed by extensive experience in the automotive industry.
Educational & Professional Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field is required.
- An MBA or other advanced degree is strongly preferred.
- Professional certifications such as Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) or equivalent are highly desirable.
Experience:
- A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in procurement, strategic sourcing, and supply chain management.
- At least 7-10 years in a senior leadership capacity (e.g., Vice President, Senior Director) with responsibility for a global team and significant spend.
Crucial
Substantial and recent experience within the automotive manufacturing industry, preferably with a Tier 1 or Tier 2 supplier. OEM experience will also be considered.
- Demonstrable track record of successfully developing and implementing global procurement strategies that have resulted in measurable improvements in cost, quality, and delivery.
- Proven experience managing complex supplier negotiations and relationships on a global scale.
- Experience with sourcing for electric vehicle (EV) components, such as batteries, electric motors, and power electronics, is a significant advantage.
Skills & Competencies:
- Exceptional leadership and team-building skills with the ability to inspire and motivate a diverse, global team.
- World-class negotiation skills and the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels, from the shop floor to the boardroom.
- Deep financial acumen with the ability to analyze complex financial data, build business cases, and manage large budgets.
- A strong strategic and analytical mindset, capable of translating broad corporate goals into clear, actionable procurement plans.
- Expert knowledge of modern procurement and supply chain principles, including strategic sourcing, category management, TCO, and risk management.
- Proficiency with ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, or similar) and advanced procurement software suites.
- A deep understanding of automotive quality standards such as IATF 16949 and lean manufacturing principles.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and persuasively.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top executive talent by offering a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package, including:
- Competitive Executive Base Salary
- Lucrative Annual Performance-Based Bonus Plan
- Long-Term Incentive Program (Equity, Stock Options, or equivalent)
- Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- Robust 401(k) Retirement Plan with a generous company match
- Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and company holidays
- Full Relocation Assistance Package for qualified candidates
- Company-provided vehicle or vehicle allowance
- Paid professional development opportunities and association memberships
- Executive wellness programs and other perks
How to Apply
This is an exclusive search being conducted by JRG Partners. To be considered for this pivotal Chief Procurement Officer role, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and strategic accomplishments. We invite you to connect with our team of expert recruiters who specialize in placing top talent within the manufacturing and automotive sectors. Learn more about our specialized approach by visiting JRG Partners’ Supply Chain & Logistics Practice. We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing how your expertise can drive the future success of our client.
