Job Description

Position Summary

The New Product Development & Introduction (NPD/NPI) Procurement Lead is responsible for strategically supporting new product development initiatives by ensuring timely, cost-effective, and high-quality sourcing of materials, components, and services from concept through launch. This role partners closely with engineering, R&D, manufacturing, quality, and suppliers to integrate procurement best practices early in the product lifecycle, reduce risk, and enable successful product commercialization.

Key Responsibilities

New Product Development & Introduction

* Lead procurement activities for new product development and product introduction programs from concept through production ramp-up.

* Participate in cross-functional NPD/NPI teams to influence design-for-cost, design-for-supply, and supplier selection decisions early in development.

* Develop sourcing strategies aligned with product roadmaps, technical requirements, timelines, and cost targets.

* Support prototype, pilot, and pre-production builds, ensuring on-time availability of materials and services.

Supplier Management & Sourcing

* Identify, evaluate, and onboard new suppliers to support innovative products and emerging technologies.

* Lead supplier RFQs/RFPs, negotiations, and contract development for NPD-related components and services.

* Establish strong supplier partnerships to drive innovation, risk mitigation, and continuous improvement.

* Collaborate with suppliers on cost reduction, lead-time optimization, and quality improvements.

Cost, Risk, and Lifecycle Management

* Develop and manage cost models, should-cost analyses, and total cost of ownership (TCO) assessments for new products.

* Identify and mitigate supply chain risks related to new technologies, single-source components, or constrained materials.

* Support make/buy decisions and transition plans from development suppliers to production suppliers as needed.

* Ensure compliance with regulatory, sustainability, and organizational procurement policies.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

* Work closely with engineering, R&D, manufacturing, quality, finance, and program management teams to align procurement strategies with technical and business objectives.

* Serve as the primary procurement point of contact for NPD/NPI programs.

* Support change management related to design changes, supplier transitions, and production scaling.

Continuous Improvement & Governance

* Develop and standardize NPD/NPI procurement processes, tools, and best practices.

* Track and report key metrics such as cost, lead time, supplier performance, and launch readiness.

* Contribute to lessons-learned reviews and continuous improvement initiatives post-launch.

Required Qualifications

* Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Business, or a related field (Master's degree preferred).

* 5+ years of experience in procurement, sourcing, or supply chain roles, with demonstrated experience supporting new product development or product launches.

* Strong understanding of NPD/NPI processes, manufacturing environments, and supplier engagement models.

* Proven negotiation, analytical, and project management skills.

* Ability to work effectively in cross-functional, fast-paced environments.

Preferred Qualifications

* Experience in research-driven, advanced manufacturing, technology, or regulated environments.

* Familiarity with contract manufacturing, prototype sourcing, and low-to-high volume transitions.

Apply here: https://www.aplitrak.com/?adid=YmJnZW5lcmljLjM3MjMxLjEwNTA4QHZlcnRpdmNvbXAuYXBsaXRyYWsuY29t