Buyer - Contract

The New Product Introduction Lead is responsible for managing and coordinating all direct material activities required to support successful technology transfers and new product introductions. The coordinator serves as a key liaison between Supply Chain, Procurement, Program Management, Quality, and external stakeholders to ensure seamless execution of tech transfer projects.

New Product Introduction Lead / Buyer
Schedule: Vacaville CA 95688 - 5 days/week onsite
Duration: 6 Months with opportunities for extension

Interview: Panel interview with peers, then interview with Hiring Manager

Position Summary
The New Product Introduction Lead is responsible for managing and coordinating all direct material activities required to support successful technology transfers and new product introductions. This role partners with cross-functional teams to ensure materials, systems, and procurement processes are established on time to support production schedules. The coordinator serves as a key liaison between Supply Chain, Procurement, Program Management, Quality, and external stakeholders to ensure seamless execution of tech transfer projects.
 
Key Responsibilities

• Provide direct procurement support and input to Supply Chain technology transfer schedules.
• Participate in Supply Chain workstream meetings and drive completion of key deliverables required for successful technology transfers.
• Coordinate with Program Managers, Procurement, and cross-functional teams to identify, track, and mitigate project risks.
• Partner with Global Procurement, clients, and network partners to source new raw materials and suppliers.
• Obtain pricing, establish procurement data, and ensure purchase orders are issued on time to support project timelines.
• Serve as Change Owner for new material introductions and support material-related change requests.
• Track raw material status, risks, and mitigation plans and provide updates to project stakeholders.
• Collaborate with Program Managers and clients to establish safety stock strategies and evaluate material-related costs.
• Manage MRP activities for customer materials, coordinate shipments, and create purchase orders as needed.
• Facilitate lessons learned meetings and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives for technology transfer processes.
• Lead or support Supply Chain process improvement projects related to NPI and technology transfer activities.
• Act as a delegate for Supply Chain Technology Transfer Leads when required, including facilitating meetings and tracking project progress.

 
Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required.
• Intermediate experience in Supply Chain, Procurement, Operations, or related fields.
• Experience with direct material procurement and purchasing processes, including purchase requisition to purchase order workflows.
• Experience sourcing materials, managing suppliers, and conducting competitive bid processes.
• Working knowledge of procurement best practices and supplier negotiations.
• Hands-on experience using SAP ERP in a purchasing or procurement environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Customer-focused mindset and strong cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Ability to work independently, solve complex problems, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• APICS CPIM certification or equivalent MRP planning certification preferred.

 
Key Competencies

• Agility and adaptability in a changing environment.
• Strong business acumen and decision-making skills.
• Collaboration and teamwork across functions.
• Customer focus and stakeholder management.
• Results-oriented mindset with attention to quality and compliance.
• Leadership through accountability, reliability, and positive team contributions.

 
Key Stakeholders

• Supply Chain Technology Transfer Leads
• Program Managers
• Direct Procurement, Planning, Scheduling, Master Data, and Warehouse teams
• QC Direct Materials, MSAT, Supplier Quality, and EHS teams

 
Working Conditions

• Regular office hours.
• Less than 10% travel.
• Office-based work environment.
• Must comply with all applicable EHS, quality, and cGMP requirements.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and work effectively under deadlines.