Department: Operations
Location: Hybrid - Hoffman Estates, IL
FLSA Classification: Salary (Exempt)
SUMMARYThe Sourcing and Supplier Management Lead supports the management of external manufacturing supply base (CMOs/EMS providers) to ensure exceptional performance across cost, quality, delivery, and service. This role drives operational excellence, fosters strong supplier partnerships, and enables scalable growth by implementing robust governance, improving efficiencies, and championing continuous improvement across the contract manufacturing network.ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIESStrategic Sourcing- Lead supplier negotiations, to ensure optimal contractual terms and the highest standards of quality, compliance, working capital and cost-efficiency
- Maintain anunderstanding of the competitive landscape, commodity markets and the rationale behind supplier selection, including capabilities, innovation, cost structure, and regulatory compliance
- Apply a skilled approach to negotiations, including use of market intelligence, fact-based analysis, and best practices to achieve strong outcomes. Convert negotiated outcomes into performance-based, legally sound contracts that support long term business results (Working capital, Gros Margin, and On-time delivery).
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with, Purchasing, Planning Engineering, Quality, and other internal teams to align sourcing strategies with business needs
- Identify and implement cost-saving opportunities through value engineering, price negotiation, process improvements, and optimized sourcing.
Supplier Relationship & Performance Management- Support the development and execution of a global strategy for managing contract manufacturers
- Act as the primary liaison for operational, commercial, and strategic interactions with Contract Manufacturing (CM) partners
- Monitor and enhance supplier performance through KPIs (cost, delivery, quality, responsiveness, compliance)
- Establish and lead business reviews, strengthen collaboration, and drive long-term value creation
- Ensure CM partners meet production schedules, capacity plans, quality standards and cost improvement targets.
- Partner with internal teams (planning, quality, engineering) to resolve manufacturing challenges and improve yields and lead times
- Drive continuous improvement in production efficiency, logistics, and overall service performance
- Support audits and qualification processes for existing partners while maintaining risk mitigation and supply continuity strategies
Education and Experience- Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field.
- 3 to 7 years of professional experience in supply chain, sourcing, or operations.
- Previous experience in quality-focused or regulated industries, such as medical devices, electronics, consumer goods, or food manufacturing.
Skills & Competencies- Strong negotiation, communication, and supplier relationship management skills.
- Proficiency with data-driven decision-making tools (cost modeling, KPI dashboards).
- Demonstrated ability to collaborate on cross-functional initiatives and deliver measurable performance improvements.
- Knowledge of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
- Strategic thinker with strong execution and problem-solving capabilities.
Other DutiesPlease note that this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this position. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any given time, with or without notice.
Pay TransparencyThe pay range for this position is $85,000.00-$105,000.00 Annual. The specific compensation offered to a candidate may be influenced by a variety of factors including skills, qualifications, experience.
Pay Transparency Details: The actual base pay offered will vary depending on multiple factors including job-related knowledge/skills, experience, business needs, geographical location, and internal equity. At Natus, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top end of the range.
What We Offer!• Medical Plans
• Wellness Program
• Dental & Vision Benefits
• EAP Services
• Legal Services
• 401(k)
• 4 weeks of PTO
• 2 Floating Holidays
• 7 Company Holidays
• HSAs (Employer HSA contribution available, dependent on plan selection.)
• Dependent Care FSA
• Disability Benefits,
• Life Insurance Benefits
• Tuition reimbursement and more!
