Purchasing - Salary - Strategic Category Purchaser

Established in 1919 and traded on the NYSE, Standard Motor Products, Inc. (SMP) is a leading independent manufacturer and distributor of premium automotive replacement parts utilized in the maintenance, repair, and service of vehicles in the automotive aftermarket. Additionally, SMP provides customized solutions for vehicle control and thermal management products in diversified end markets represented by its Engineered Solutions segment.

Globally, SMP employs over 6,000 employees across nearly 40 manufacturing, distribution, and engineering facilities and offices located in North America, Europe and Asia. SMP sells its products primarily to automotive aftermarket retailers, program distribution groups, warehouse distributors, original equipment manufacturers, and original equipment service part operations in the United States, Canada, Europe, Asia, Mexico, and other Latin American countries.

Job Title: Strategic Category Purchaser
Department: Strategic Sourcing
Reports to: Supervisor Strategic Purchasing
People Management: No

Key Responsibilities

• Manage suppliers within an assigned category, including approximately 25 product groups.
• Lead negotiations on pricing, terms, and conditions.
• Analyze procurement KPIs for the category.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Category & Product Management, Engineering, and Supply Chain.
• Align with other Nissens & SMP Group entities and brands.
• Drive improvements in supplier performance.
• Support cross-functional projects.

Core Tasks

• Develop and implement sourcing strategies in partnership with the team.
• Execute tasks in accordance with the operating model.
• Conduct global supplier visits and manage supplier relationships.
• Maintain and update master data.
• Perform supplier negotiations and strategic performance analyses.

Working Relationships

• Collaborate with all members of the Strategic Purchasing team across brands and entities within the Nissens & SMP Groups.
• Work closely with Category Managers, Product Managers, Supply Chain Management, Quality, and Engineering.

Professional Competencies

• Strong and professional communication skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, mid-level MS Excel experience.
• Solid commercial acumen.

Personal Competencies

• Willingness to travel internationally.
• Team-oriented mindset.
• Self-starter, independent
• Commitment to learning and professional development.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Economics or Engineering.