The Future is Made by You: Ready, Set, Ford At Ford, we are not just a car company; we are a movement. We are undergoing a massive transformation to lead the electric and digital revolution. This requires a culture of speed, purpose, and—above all—integrity. Our Ready, Set, Ford mindset means we are prepared for the challenges of tomorrow, we are set on our goals of innovation and belonging, and we are moving forward together.

As a Global Vendor Tooling Buyer at Ford, you will be a pivotal force in shaping the future of our manufacturing operations. This strategic role involves developing and executing robust sourcing strategies for all global tooling requirements, ensuring superior quality, optimal cost efficiency through expert negotiation, and achieving ambitious savings goals. Beyond these core responsibilities, this dynamic position is evolving to include exciting new stretch activities, such as performing comprehensive tooling audits at supplier sites and actively managing the entire tool life cycle. Ultimately, you will be critical in guaranteeing the timely and reliable supply of essential parts and molds, directly enabling the successful launch and continuous support of Ford's diverse global programs.

Competencies Must

• Strong communication skills in English (both written and verbal)
• Proven negotiation and influencing skills
• Skill in managing cross-functional issues / relationships
• Strong analytical Acumen

Competencies Desired

• Prior Purchasing experience (2-3 years)
• Tooling Experience (Design, Manufacturing and Procurement)
• Knowledge on Stamping and manufacturing processes involving sheet metal or injection molding
• Experience on automotive components
• Knowledge of tool and die industry & Sheet metal asembly porcess
• Experience leveraging AI-driven cost modeling tools to predict tooling costs and identify savings opportunities based on CAD data or historical benchmarks.
• Ability to utilize AI-powered market intelligence platforms for predictive supply chain forecasting and vendor risk assessment.
• Competency in Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) analysis, moving beyond price-per-tool to evaluate long-term value and OH cost.

Skills

• Analytical skills
• Decision-Making
• Negotiation
• Resilience
• Teamwork
• Willing to travel (local – which will require to drive to supplier locations)
• Microsoft Office skills
• Interpretation of AI/Machine Learning insights (ability to translate predictive data into actionable purchasing strategies).
• Proficiency in Generative AI tools for efficient drafting of RFQs, contract summarization, and rapid market research.
• Strategic Sourcing and Category Management.
• Data Visualization (e.g., PowerBI, Tableau) for presenting complex global spend data.

DISCLAIMER: Ford Motor Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer, as we are committed with a diverse workforce, and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, status as a veteran and basis of disability.

• Strategic Supplier Development & Partnership: Cultivate and expand a world-class, high-performing supply base, meticulously ensuring long-term partners consistently meet Ford's stringent quality, cost, timing, and technology expectations for all Vehicle Operations and Manufacturing Operations product programs.
• Proactive Supply Chain Engagement & Optimization: Lead early engagement initiatives with the supply chain team, influencing and optimizing sourcing strategies to select the best business partners for Ford.
• Tooling Lifecycle Management: Support tooling lifecycle management, from initial acquisition, including maintenance and refurbishment processes.
• Global Sourcing & Launch Excellence: Develop and execute sophisticated tooling sourcing strategies, provide critical support for successful vehicle launches.
• Quality Assurance & Performance Audits: Conduct comprehensive on-site tooling audits at supplier facilities, proactively identifying areas for improvement and ensuring unwavering adherence to Ford's rigorous quality standards.
• Operational Efficiency & Waste Reduction: Champion Lean Deployment, Total Value Management (TVM), and Quality Operating Systems (QOS) to relentlessly eliminate waste, drive continuous improvement, and enhance value across the entire tooling value chain.