Director, Procurement - OEMS

Job Description:

The Director, Procurement – OEMs (Direct Sourcing) is responsible for building, leading, and optimizing strategic sourcing and relationship management with vehicle Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs). This role merges advanced procurement strategy with deep OEM relationship oversight to secure optimal vehicle availability, maximize incentives, and drive enterprise value through innovation, performance, and cost efficiency.

The role requires both strategic leadership and tactical execution, including supplier relationship management, negotiation, performance tracking, and cross-functional collaboration with teams across Operations, Product, Commercial, Legal, and Finance. The Director will directly manage the end-to-end OEM category and dealer sourcing lifecycle, ensuring Wheels secures a competitive advantage in the vehicle procurement market.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Develop and implement multi-year-old sourcing strategies for direct OEM vehicle procurement, aligned with enterprise growth and market demand
• Build and maintain strong relationships with top OEMs to secure vehicle availability and access to product innovation
• Manage end-to-end OEM category planning including forecasting, volume allocation, and incentive optimization
• Liaise with Client Management teams to align vehicle sourcing strategies with client fleets’ operational needs and procurement objectives
• Act as a strategic advisor during client engagements/RFPs, by providing OEM-specific insights, availability updates, and sourcing alternatives
• Influence vehicle procurement strategies based on client trends, feedback, and growth forecasts.
• Drive strategic sourcing initiatives across vehicle distribution segments (out-of-stock and sub-code dealer networks) to develop preferred dealer network partnerships
• Develop and implement sourcing strategies specific to Canadian and Truck markets, including MD, HD, and Tractor segments
• Lead contract negotiations and manage program renewals, incentive plans, pricing amendments, and terms across OEM partners
• Manage communication of OEM pricing updates, incentive reconciliation and related reporting in partnership with procurement analysts and Finance
• Ensure timely communication of OEM product updates to client-facing, vehicle acquisition, and supply chain teams
• Lead OEM-related presentations to clients and internal stakeholders, including C-suite debriefs and executive strategy updates
• Collaborate with OEMs and vendor management to deliver annual business reviews focused on delivery, service, logistics, and responsiveness
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Legal, Finance, Product, Pricing, and Operations to align sourcing strategies with business objectives
• Continuously evaluate sourcing performance using defined KPIs and reporting tools; identify improvement opportunities
• Maintain awareness of OEM and automotive market trends to inform negotiation and supply strategies

LEADERSHIP RESPONSIBILITIES

• Up to 5 Direct Reports; Up to 10 Indirect Reports
• Responsibility for driving incremental benefits/cost savings and contractual value through OEM Sourcing

Leadership Responsibilities Strategy

• Lead cross-functional collaboration and influence without direct authority
• Develop and mentor internal team members through informal training and project leadership
• Build and maintain productive relationships with internal stakeholders and external supplier partner executives
• Serve as a strategic thought leader and change agent within the Procurement organization

COMPETENCIES - SKILLS

• Strategic Thinking: Demonstrated ability to think long-term, synthesize complex data, and translate macro-level industry trends into actionable procurement strategies
• Skilled at evaluating supply chain dynamics, forecasting demand, and designing proactive sourcing plans that align with evolving business needs
• Adept at balancing short-term execution with long-term vision, identifying opportunities for innovation, risk mitigation, and competitive differentiation
• Brings a systems-level perspective that drives enterprise value and sustainable supplier partnerships
• Supplier Relationship Management: Strong track record of developing and managing strategic supplier relationships that deliver measurable business value.
• Negotiation Expertise: Proven success negotiating contracts and incentive programs with high-value suppliers
• OEM & Automotive Industry Knowledge: In-depth understanding of vehicle procurement, trends, and the fleet management landscape
• Analytical Acumen: Ability to analyze data, model forecasts, and drive insights that improve decision-making
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Skilled at working across multiple departments to align goals and drive value
• Change Management: Demonstrated ability to lead process improvements and strategic shifts in dynamic environments
• Communication: Exceptional verbal and written communication, including executive-level presentations
• ERP & Analytics Tools: Proficiency in Microsoft Excel; knowledge of ERP systems (Oracle, SAP Ariba, Coupa), Power BI or Tableau preferred

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in business, supply chain management, or a related field
• Advanced degree or relevant certifications (e.g., CPM, CPSM, CAFM) are a plus
• 10+ years of experience in vendor management, procurement, or supply chain management, preferably within automotive service-focused and/or technology focused industries
• Strong leadership capabilities with proven success in supplier relationship management and cross-functional engagement
• Demonstrated success in creation of value during complex contract negotiations

JOB SPECIFICATIONS and WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Work Environment:  This position is based in Alpharetta, Georgia or Schaumburg, Ill and operates in a professional office environment
• Positions Type/Standard Schedule: Full time position, 3-days on-site (Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday)
• Travel: 30% - 40%

DISCLAIMER

Please note 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 job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Our Benefits

Wheels recognizes benefits are a significant part of your employee experience, and we've created a robust benefits package that is market-leading, competitive offerings so you and your family can receive outstanding care. Please click here for an overview of the benefits available to you and your family.

Pay Range:

The base salary range for this position is listed above. This position is eligible to participate in the annual incentive plan which is based on company performance and individual performance. Compensation ranges are based on several factors including job function, level, and geographic location. Final offer amounts are determined by multiple factors including candidate experience, education, certifications, skill level and expertise, and may vary from the amounts listed here.

EEO Statement
 

Wheels is a Drug-Free Workplace. All employment is contingent on successful completion of drug and background screening.

Wheels is an equal opportunity affirmative action employer and administers all personnel practices without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status or domestic partnership status, disability, protected veteran status or military status, genetic information, or any other category protected under applicable law. Wheels is committed to taking affirmative steps to promote the employment and advancement of minorities, women, persons with disabilities and protected veterans.