International Buyer

Position Summary

CVG is seeking a proactive and solutions-oriented International Buyer to support the Wiper Assembly product line at our Michigan City, Indiana manufacturing facility. This role is responsible for managing the procurement and supply continuity of direct materials, components, and services while ensuring uninterrupted support of production schedules and customer commitments.

The ideal candidate will be more than a transactional buyer. They will be a self-starter who anticipates risks, builds strong supplier relationships, and proactively manages international supply chains to prevent material shortages before they impact production. Success in this role requires strong problem-solving abilities, adaptability, collaboration, and a customer-focused mindset.

This position works closely with Production, Materials Planning, Engineering, Quality, Logistics, and suppliers across the globe to support operational excellence and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day purchasing activities for wiper assembly components including motors, linkages, blades, arms, fasteners, and related hardware.
• Place, monitor, expedite, and track purchase orders within the ERP/MRP system to ensure on-time delivery.
• Maintain continuous communication with domestic and international suppliers to ensure supply continuity and mitigate disruptions.
• Proactively identify potential material shortages, supplier constraints, and logistics risks before they impact production.
• Coordinate expedited shipments, including air freight and other alternative transportation methods when necessary to support customer demand.
• Manage supplier performance related to cost, quality, delivery, responsiveness, and overall reliability.
• Work closely with Production Planning and Materials teams to support demand requirements and maintain appropriate inventory levels.
• Monitor and manage fluctuating supplier lead times, transportation challenges, and changing customer demand requirements.
• Support overseas sourcing activities and work with suppliers in regions such as China, India, Vietnam, and other global markets.
• Partner with logistics providers and freight forwarders to coordinate international shipments and improve material flow.
• Maintain accurate item master records, supplier lead times, purchasing data, and sourcing information within ERP systems.
• Collaborate with Engineering and Quality teams on supplier-related issues, corrective actions, engineering changes, and product launches.
• Support cost savings initiatives, supplier development activities, and continuous improvement efforts.
• Participate in supplier risk assessments and business continuity planning activities.
• Prepare purchasing metrics, supplier updates, and supply chain status reports for plant leadership.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, or a related field preferred; equivalent experience will be considered.
• Minimum of 2 years of purchasing, procurement, or buying experience within a manufacturing environment.
• Experience supporting automotive, commercial vehicle, industrial manufacturing, or similar production environments preferred.
• Experience purchasing mechanical or electromechanical components such as motors, assemblies, stampings, linkages, or related products is highly desirable.
• International sourcing or global supplier management experience preferred.

Required Skills & Experience

• Experience using ERP/MRP systems such as Plex, SAP, Oracle, QAD, JD Edwards, Epicor, or similar platforms.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing supply chains, lead times, and inventory management principles.
• Experience managing supplier relationships and resolving supply chain disruptions.
• Knowledge of international shipping processes, freight coordination, and import logistics.
• Familiarity with ocean freight, air freight, expedited shipments, and freight forwarder coordination.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and purchasing systems.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience sourcing from suppliers located in China, India, Vietnam, or other international markets.
• Exposure to automotive quality systems, including PPAP, APQP, and IATF 16949.
• CPSM, CPM, APICS/CPIM, or related professional certifications.
• Experience supporting long lead-time materials and global supply chains.

What Will Make You Successful

The successful candidate will be:

• A proactive problem solver who anticipates challenges rather than reacts to them.
• Comfortable working independently while collaborating effectively across departments.
• Adaptable and capable of navigating changing priorities and supply chain conditions.
• Honest, accountable, and open to both giving and receiving feedback.
• A strong communicator who builds positive relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
• Flexible and responsive when working with suppliers across multiple time zones.
• A team-oriented professional committed to supporting colleagues, customers, and business objectives.

At CVG, we value individuals who demonstrate integrity, ownership, collaboration, and a positive attitude. We're looking for someone who not only brings purchasing expertise, but also contributes to a strong team culture and helps drive long-term success.