Commodity Manager

Location: Seminole, OK (Onsite 5 Days/Week)
Industry: Aerospace Manufacturing

Position Overview

Our client is seeking an experienced Commodity Manager to lead strategic sourcing and supplier management initiatives for a growing aerospace manufacturing organization. This position will be responsible for developing and executing commodity strategies, managing key supplier relationships, driving cost reduction initiatives, and leading a team of purchasing professionals.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in industrial or manufacturing-related commodities, proven leadership experience, and the ability to drive supplier performance in a highly regulated manufacturing environment. This role is highly visible within the organization and will partner closely with operations, engineering, quality, and finance teams to ensure supply continuity, cost competitiveness, and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute commodity sourcing strategies aligned with company objectives and production requirements.
• Lead strategic sourcing initiatives, including supplier selection, RFQs, negotiations, contract management, and supplier performance programs.
• Manage and mentor a team of 4 direct reports, providing leadership, coaching, and professional development.
• Establish and maintain strong supplier relationships to improve cost, quality, delivery, and service levels.
• Negotiate pricing agreements, long-term contracts, and supplier terms to maximize value and mitigate risk.
• Drive continuous improvement and cost savings initiatives across assigned commodity categories.
• Collaborate with Operations, Supply Chain, Engineering, Quality, and Finance teams to support manufacturing objectives and new product programs.
• Monitor market trends, commodity pricing fluctuations, and supply chain risks to proactively develop mitigation strategies.
• Evaluate supplier performance through KPIs and corrective action plans when necessary.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, aerospace industry standards, and procurement best practices.
• Support inventory optimization, demand planning, and production continuity efforts.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, Operations, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in procurement, sourcing, commodity management, or supply chain management within a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Demonstrated experience leading teams and developing procurement professionals.
• Strong strategic sourcing and supplier negotiation experience.
• Experience managing industrial commodities such as metals, machined components, castings, fabricated parts, electrical components, MRO, or other manufacturing-related categories.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Strong contract negotiation and supplier relationship management capabilities.
• Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Excel.

Preferred

• Aerospace, defense, aviation, or highly regulated manufacturing experience.
• Experience supporting complex manufacturing operations.
• APICS, CPSM, CPM, or other supply chain certifications.
• Lean Manufacturing or Continuous Improvement experience.

Leadership Expectations

• Lead by example and promote a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Develop team capabilities through coaching, mentoring, and performance management.
• Foster strong cross-functional relationships and influence stakeholders at multiple levels of the organization.
• Drive strategic decision-making while maintaining a hands-on approach to daily business activities.