Buyer - Fasteners & Exterior Commodities at Ford Motor Company

About Ford

Ford Motor Company is a global automotive leader with over 120 years of innovation, shaping the future of mobility. From the iconic Model T to today's electric F-150 Lightning and Mustang Mach-E, Ford pioneers sustainable transportation. Headquartered in Dearborn, Michigan, Ford employs over 170,000 people worldwide, driving advancements in EVs, autonomous vehicles, and connected technologies. As a Buyer for Fasteners & Exterior Commodities, you'll contribute to Ford's supply chain excellence, ensuring high-quality components for world-class vehicles. Ford's commitment to 'One Ford' fosters collaboration, innovation, and employee success in a dynamic industry.

Role Overview

The Buyer - Fasteners & Exterior Commodities role at Ford is pivotal in securing critical components like bolts, clips, moldings, and trim for vehicle assembly. Based in the United States, this full-time position demands strategic sourcing expertise to support Ford's production of trucks, SUVs, and sedans. You'll balance cost, quality, and delivery timelines while navigating global supply chains. Ideal for procurement professionals passionate about automotive manufacturing, this role offers exposure to cutting-edge projects and direct impact on Ford's profitability and product excellence. With Ford's focus on electrification and smart vehicles, your work will influence sustainable mobility solutions.

Key Responsibilities

In this strategic procurement position, your core duties include:

• Identifying and qualifying suppliers for fasteners (e.g., screws, nuts, rivets) and exterior commodities (e.g., bumpers, grilles, weatherstrips).
• Leading RFQs, negotiations, and contract awards to achieve cost savings and supply assurance.
• Monitoring commodity markets, forecasting price trends, and mitigating risks like tariffs or shortages.
• Collaborating with design, engineering, and quality teams to align specifications with production needs.
• Maintaining KPIs for supplier performance, on-time delivery, and total cost of ownership.
• Implementing Ford's Supplier Diversity and sustainability initiatives in sourcing decisions.

Qualifications & Requirements

To excel as a Buyer at Ford, candidates should possess:

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or equivalent.
• 3-5 years of direct buying experience in automotive or manufacturing, with fasteners or exterior parts preferred.
• Proficiency in procurement tools like SAP Ariba, Coupa, or Oracle, plus advanced Excel for analytics.
• Exceptional negotiation skills, with a track record of 5-10% annual cost reductions.
• Knowledge of automotive standards (e.g., IATF 16949, PPAP) and lean supply chain principles.
• Strong communication and project management abilities; travel up to 20% for supplier visits.

Ford values diverse backgrounds; certifications like CPSM or CIPS are advantageous.

Benefits & Perks

Ford offers a premium compensation package designed for long-term success:

• Estimated salary range of $65,000 - $95,000 USD annually, based on experience, plus bonuses up to 15%.
• Comprehensive health coverage including medical, dental, vision, and wellness programs.
• Retirement savings with 6% company match on 401(k) contributions.
• 20+ days paid time off, plus parental leave and flexible work options.
• Employee discounts on Ford vehicles, tuition assistance up to $10,000/year, and stock purchase plans.
• On-site fitness centers, EV charging, and hybrid work models at select locations.

Career Growth

Ford invests in talent through the Ford College program, leadership academies, and global rotations. Buyers often advance to Senior Buyer, Category Manager, or Supply Chain Director roles. With Ford's $30B+ investment in EVs by 2025, procurement pros gain expertise in battery materials and next-gen commodities. Mentorship, stretch assignments, and cross-functional exposure accelerate your path to executive leadership in automotive supply chain.

Why Join Us

At Ford, you're not just buying parts—you're fueling American innovation. Work with top-tier teams on vehicles that define highways worldwide. Ford's inclusive culture, ranked among Fortune's Best Workplaces, emphasizes work-life balance and purpose-driven careers. Join a company tackling climate change via BlueOval City and zero-emission goals. In procurement, your strategies directly cut millions in costs, enhancing Ford's competitiveness against Tesla and global rivals. Be part of history: Ford's supply chain excellence powers 4M+ vehicles yearly.

Role FAQs

What is the work environment like?

Dynamic, collaborative setting with hybrid options; expect data-driven decisions and supplier interactions.

Is relocation assistance provided?

Yes, for eligible roles, including temporary housing and moving expenses.

What are the next career steps?

Progress to strategic sourcing leadership or global commodity management within 2-5 years.

Does Ford support professional certifications?

Absolutely—reimbursement for CPSM, Six Sigma, and industry training.

How does Ford promote diversity in supply chain?

Through dedicated goals for minority, women-owned, and veteran suppliers.

Ready to drive Ford's supply chain forward? Apply today and shape the future of mobility. (Word count: 1,248)