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# VP, Global Sourcing with an Automotive OEM – Detroit, MI



JRG Partners is proud to partner with a leading global Automotive Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) in their search for a transformative and visionary Vice President of Global Sourcing. Based in the heart of the automotive industry, Detroit, MI, this executive leadership role is a career-defining opportunity to shape the future of a multi-billion dollar global supply chain. The ideal candidate is a seasoned, strategic leader with a profound understanding of automotive procurement, a passion for innovation, and a track record of building resilient, cost-effective, and sustainable supply networks. You will be at the forefront of navigating the industry’s shift towards electrification, autonomous driving, and connected vehicles, ensuring our client maintains its competitive edge through world-class sourcing excellence.
Role Overview for VP, Global Sourcing with an Automotive OEM – Detroit, MI
As the Vice President of Global Sourcing, you will hold ultimate responsibility for the strategic direction and operational execution of all global procurement and sourcing activities. Reporting directly to the Chief Procurement Officer (CPO), you will lead a large, international team of sourcing professionals and commodity managers. Your mission will be to develop and implement innovative sourcing strategies that deliver significant cost savings, mitigate supply chain risks, and foster strong, collaborative partnerships with a global network of suppliers.
This role requires a dynamic leader who can balance aggressive cost management with the critical need for quality, innovation, and supply assurance. You will be a key member of the executive leadership team, collaborating closely with Engineering, Manufacturing, Finance, and Quality departments to drive enterprise-wide objectives and ensure that the supply base is a source of competitive advantage. Your leadership will be pivotal in transforming the sourcing function from a tactical purchasing group to a strategic value-creation engine for the entire organization.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Global Sourcing with an Automotive OEM – Detroit, MI
Strategic Sourcing Leadership
Develop, articulate, and execute a comprehensive global sourcing strategy that aligns with the company’s long-term business objectives, including growth, profitability, and technology roadmaps.
Team Development & Management
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing global sourcing organization. Foster a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, data-driven decision-making, and collaboration across all regions.
Cost Management & Value Creation
Drive aggressive year-over-year cost reductions and value engineering initiatives across a multi-billion dollar spend portfolio. Implement advanced cost modeling, should-cost analysis, and total cost of ownership (TCO) methodologies.
Supplier Relationship Management (SRM)
Champion a world-class SRM program to cultivate strategic partnerships with key suppliers. Lead executive-level negotiations for complex, high-value contracts and establish performance metrics (KPIs) to ensure supplier excellence in quality, delivery, and cost.
Supply Chain Risk Mitigation
Proactively identify, assess, and mitigate risks within the global supply chain. Develop robust contingency plans for geopolitical instability, natural disasters, logistical disruptions, and raw material volatility to ensure continuity of supply.
Technology & Innovation
Drive the adoption of digital procurement technologies, including e-sourcing platforms, spend analytics tools, and AI-driven insights to enhance efficiency and strategic capabilities. Champion supplier-led innovation to support new product development and technological advancements.
Commodity Strategy
Oversee the development and execution of sophisticated global commodity strategies for key categories, including direct materials (e.g., steel, aluminum, resins, electronics, semiconductors) and indirect goods and services.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Partner seamlessly with R&D and Engineering on new product introductions (NPI) to ensure early supplier involvement and design-for-manufacturability. Work closely with Manufacturing and Quality to resolve supply issues and drive supplier quality improvements.
Sustainability & ESG
Integrate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria into the sourcing process. Develop and lead initiatives to promote sustainability, diversity, and ethical practices throughout the supply base.
Requirements for the VP, Global Sourcing with an Automotive OEM – Detroit, MI
Educational Background
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.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in strategic sourcing, procurement, or supply chain management, with at least 7 years in a senior leadership capacity (Director level or above) overseeing a global team.
Industry Expertise
Deep and extensive experience within the automotive industry (OEM or Tier-1 Supplier) is mandatory. Must possess a thorough understanding of automotive product development cycles, quality standards (IATF 16949), and the complexities of the evolving global automotive supply chain.
Leadership Acumen
Proven ability to lead large, geographically dispersed teams. A transformational leadership style with a track record of building and developing talent and driving organizational change.
Negotiation & Financial Skills
World-class negotiation skills with a demonstrated history of successfully negotiating multi-million dollar, long-term agreements. Strong financial acumen with the ability to analyze complex financial data and manage a large budget.
Strategic Mindset
Ability to think strategically and translate business goals into actionable sourcing strategies. Adept at analyzing market trends and competitive landscapes to identify opportunities and threats.
Technical Proficiency
Experience with modern ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and digital procurement suites. Proficient in data analysis and using analytics to drive strategic decisions.
Communication Skills
Exceptional executive presence and communication skills, with the ability to influence and build consensus with stakeholders at all levels, from the shop floor to the C-suite.
Global Experience
Must have significant experience managing international sourcing operations, particularly in North America, Europe, and Asia.
This role is not just about managing spend; it’s about building the resilient, innovative, and cost-effective supply chain that will power the next generation of mobility. We are seeking a leader who can inspire a team, challenge the status quo, and deliver exceptional results in a fast-paced and demanding environment.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a highly competitive and comprehensive executive compensation and benefits package designed to attract and retain top-tier talent. This includes:

Highly competitive base salary and executive bonus program.
Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP) with equity components.
Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance plans.
401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match.
Executive vehicle allowance or company car program.
Full relocation assistance package for qualified candidates.
Generous paid time off (PTO), company holidays, and parental leave.
Opportunities for continued professional development and executive coaching.
The chance to make a significant impact on a leading global automotive brand.

How to Apply
JRG Partners is exclusively managing the recruitment for this critical leadership position. If you are a visionary sourcing executive with the experience and drive to excel in this role, we encourage you to apply. To be considered, please submit your confidential resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest. For more information on our expertise in this area, please visit our Supply Chain & Operations Recruiting Practice page. We look forward to connecting with you to discuss this exciting opportunity.