Role Summary
This position within the Global Procurement Office is responsible for leading the global thermal commodity strategy to align with Advantests business engineering and supply chain needs. The role works closely with global business units R&D procurement and supply chain teams to manage, develop, and influence the thermal supply base, ensuring suppliers meet Advantests technical, commercial, and operational requirements. The Global Commodity Manager acts as the key interface between corporate procurement, the global thermal team, and business units, driving strategic alignment and supply chain excellence.
Key Responsibilities
Commodity & Supplier Strategy • Develop, implement, and lead the global thermal commodity strategy aligned with long-range business goals. • Identify, evaluate, and develop suppliers to ensure capability, competitiveness, and long-term strategic fit. • Maintain strong supplier relationships by understanding their product portfolios and organizational dynamics.
Cross-Functional Collaboration • Serve as the interface between business units R&D procurement and global supply chain for all thermal-related supply topics. • Coordinate cross-functional teams to ensure alignment between business needs and supplier capabilities. • Support solicitation processes (RFQs, RFIs, RFPs) and define requirements and specifications.
Supplier Management & Risk Mitigation • Monitor supplier performance in quality, cost, and delivery. • Assess supplier risk, assurance-of-supply, and continuity plans, developing mitigation measures. • Drive supplier selection, performance management, and contract negotiations.
Commercial & Contracting Responsibilities • Negotiate pricing and commercial terms based on projected volumes. • Create and maintain contracts, specifications, and mutual expectations documents.
Strategic Alignment • Ensure thermal strategies align with business unit requirements and corporate goals. • Identify future technical and supply needs and ensure procurement supports business success.
Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate should exhibit the following behavioral traits:
• Strong stakeholder management, problem-solving, and results orientation. • Ability to work independently in a global matrixed environment. • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. • Strong time management and ability to balance global priorities. • Strategic thinker with attention to detail. • Strong initiative and influencing skills.