Commodity Buyer

3h3 hours ago

ZF Friedrichshafen AG

Chennai, IN · Full-time · INR 800,000 – INR 1,200,000

About this role

ZF's Commercial Vehicle Solutions division is shaping the future of commercial transportation ecosystems, supported by approximately 25,000 employees across 61 locations in 28 countries. As a Commodity Buyer, you will execute commodity strategies to deliver cost, quality, service, delivery, and technology performance across serial production.

Your day-to-day involves evaluating and increasing localization of chemical commodities such as rubber, plastics, adhesives, and lubricants, while also exploring export potential. You will support global RFQs, manage the full purchasing lifecycle including RFIs, negotiations, and contracts, and develop over-year business plans at supplier and sub-commodity levels.

You will lead sourcing projects, supplier selection, cost reduction initiatives, and price change management within a matrix organization. The role requires managing supplier performance, contracts, escalations, and conducting data-driven global benchmarks to ensure optimal supply chain outcomes.

ZF offers an innovative environment at the forefront of technological advancements, fostering a diverse and inclusive culture. Career development is supported through extensive training programs and a clear path for advancement, with opportunities to collaborate on international projects and contribute to sustainability-focused initiatives.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Engineering preferred (Chemical, Polymer, Plastics Technology); other disciplines with polymer commodity purchasing experience considered
Minimum 3 years of purchasing experience; team leadership is an advantage
Automotive experience in a matrix organization is an added benefit
Good network with plastic raw material suppliers, traders, and manufacturers
Fluent in English and Hindi; European languages (German, French, Polish) are a plus
Experience in Quality, Cost, and Delivery management; Six Sigma certification preferred
Strong knowledge of plastic processing (injection molding, extrusion, blow molding, etc.)

Responsibilities

Execute commodity strategy to deliver cost, quality, service, delivery, and technology performance across serial production
Evaluate and increase localization of chemical commodities (rubber, plastics, adhesives, lubricants) and export potential
Support global RFQs and manage the full purchasing lifecycle including RFIs, RFQs, negotiations, and contracts
Develop and maintain over-year business plans at supplier and sub-commodity level
Lead sourcing projects, supplier selection, cost reduction initiatives, and price change management
Manage supplier performance, contracts, escalations, and data-driven global benchmarks

Benefits

Innovative environment at the forefront of technological advancements
Diverse and inclusive culture that values collaboration and mutual support
Career development through extensive training programs and clear advancement paths
Global presence with opportunities to work on international projects and collaborate worldwide
Sustainability focus with active efforts towards eco-friendly solutions and reducing carbon footprint
Employee well-being prioritized through comprehensive health and wellness programs and flexible work arrangements