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At Virginia Transformer , we’re not just manufacturing custom transformers — we’re building power solutions that move the world. As a privately held, organically growing company , we thrive on momentum, innovation, and grit.
If you love the thrill of manufacturing, the strategy of an endurance race, and the energy of a fast-moving train — this is your track. We train hard, grow together, and lead with purpose. Every transformer we build is custom, every challenge unique, and every team member essential.
We’re looking for those ready to lead, fueled by commitment, and driven by impact. One team. One mission. One source.
Competitive Salary and Relocation Offered.
Location Roanoke, VA onsite.
Job Title: Commodity Manager – Conductive Materials (Copper & Related Commodities)
Location: Roanoke, VA – Office Park
Department: Supply Chain
Reports To: Director of Procurement or VP of Supply Chain
Position Type: Full-Time, On-site
Position Overview:
Virginia Transformer Corp is seeking a strategic and experienced Commodity Manager to lead sourcing and supplier management for conductive materials, including copper, copper alloys, and other critical electrical-grade raw materials. This role is responsible for vendor selection, contract negotiations, supply chain risk mitigation, and driving cost savings across multiple manufacturing sites.
You will serve as the internal subject matter expert on conductive commodity markets, proactively shaping procurement strategy and partnering with engineering, operations, and finance to ensure a secure, cost-effective, and compliant supply chain.
Key Responsibilities:
- Vendor Selection & Management: Lead sourcing and qualification of suppliers for copper and conductive materials. Establish relationships with domestic and international vendors to support quality, capacity, and pricing needs.
- Contract Management: Negotiate and manage commodity contracts, including pricing structures, terms and conditions, volume commitments, and enforcement of supply agreements.
- Commodity Strategy: Develop and execute commodity strategies based on market trends, supply/demand forecasts, risk analysis, and internal demand planning.
- Cost Optimization: Drive productivity and cost-reduction initiatives by leveraging strategic sourcing, alternate materials, or supply chain efficiencies.
- Market Analysis & Forecasting: Monitor global copper and metal market trends (e.g., LME pricing, tariffs, logistics costs) and translate insights into procurement actions.
- Supplier Relationship Management: Build and maintain strong supplier relationships, ensuring alignment with Virginia Transformer’s standards on performance, quality, delivery, and compliance.
- Risk Mitigation: Identify and manage risks in the supply base including availability, geopolitical disruptions, logistics, and pricing volatility.
- Early Supplier Involvement: Collaborate with engineering and manufacturing early in the product design process to align material requirements and optimize cost and manufacturability.
- Specification & Alternative Sourcing: Review material specifications to explore competitive alternatives and manage design-to-cost initiatives.
- Performance Reporting: Track supplier KPIs and procurement performance metrics such as cost savings, contract coverage, delivery, and lead times.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Supply Chain, or Business.
- 6–8 years of experience in sourcing, supply chain, or commodity management in a manufacturing or engineered products environment.
- Strong understanding of copper markets and conductive material supply chains (e.g., rod, wire, bar stock, busbar).
- Proven experience with vendor contract negotiation and commodity strategy development.
- Familiarity with domestic and international electrical raw material suppliers.
- Proficient in analyzing pricing trends, metal indices (LME/COMEX), and procurement forecasting.
- ERP experience required (SAP preferred); proficiency in Excel and data analysis.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
Preferred Skills:
- Experience in transformer or heavy electrical equipment manufacturing.
- Understanding of metal hedging strategies, futures pricing, or strategic stockpiling.
- Experience conducting e-auctions, RFQs, and supplier scorecard management.
Work Location:
Roanoke, VA – Office Park (on-site presence required)
- Candidates must be able to reliably commute or relocate prior to the start date.