Commodity Manager- Copper
Job DescriptionJob DescriptionDescription:
***THIS IS AN ON-SITE POSITION LOCATED IN AURORA, OHIO***
About Us:
LayerZero Power Systems Inc. is a globally recognized leader in providing state-of-the-art power distribution solutions for critical industries. With a strong focus on reliability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, we deliver advanced power systems products that ensure uninterrupted and dependable power supply in mission-critical environments. Our customer base is comprised of companies in the data center (our main focus), financial, computer service provision, and semiconductor manufacturing sectors. LayerZero Power Systems is on a trajectory of sustained growth, with a loyal customer base of existing Fortune 100 customers and an expanding portfolio of new customers.
Position Description: Commodity Manager- Copper
The Category Manager – Copper at LayerZero Power Systems is responsible for developing and executing sourcing strategies for copper-based materials and components critical to our advanced power distribution systems. This includes copper bus bars, fabricated copper assemblies, connectors, and raw copper stock. The role ensures supplier capacity, capability, and performance align with LayerZero’s rapid growth and production requirements.
The ideal candidate is both strategic and hands-on—able to balance immediate operational needs with long-term supply chain scalability. This position drives measurable supplier performance, mitigates risk, and ensures supply continuity through structured performance management, data-driven decision-making, and proactive supplier development.
Requirements:
Primary Duties:
Strategic Sourcing & Category Management
· Develop and implement commodity strategies for copper and copper-based components.
· Conduct market and supplier analysis to understand cost structures, capacity constraints, and emerging risks in copper supply chains.
· Lead sourcing initiatives from RFQ through contract negotiation and long-term agreements.
· Build and maintain a resilient, scalable supply base to support production growth and new product launches.
Supplier Capacity & Demand Alignment
· Collaborate with Operations and SIOP teams to ensure copper suppliers can meet production forecasts.
· Assess supplier scalability and lead times to support demand surges and ramp-ups.
· Develop capacity models and tools to identify bottlenecks and implement mitigation strategies.
· Lead supplier readiness reviews for critical programs.
Supplier Performance Management
· Define and track KPIs for delivery, quality, lead time, responsiveness, and cost competitiveness.
· Conduct quarterly business reviews (QBRs) to drive continuous improvement.
· Implement corrective actions for performance gaps using data-driven insights.
Cost, Risk, and Continuous Improvement
· Identify cost reduction opportunities through volume leverage, alternate sourcing, and design collaboration.
· Monitor global copper market trends to manage cost and risk exposure.
· Collaborate with suppliers to optimize logistics and reduce lead times.
· Participate in Lean/Six Sigma initiatives to streamline procurement processes.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
· Work closely with Engineering, Operations, Quality, and Finance to align sourcing strategies with business objectives.
· Support new product development with supplier sourcing and manufacturability input.
ERP & Data Integration
· Utilize ERP and analytics tools for supplier data management and performance dashboards.
· Support ERP enhancements and data governance initiatives for improved visibility.
Experience & Skills:
· 7+ years in commodity management, strategic sourcing, or supplier development within a manufacturing environment.
· Proven expertise in copper sourcing, including raw material procurement, fabricated copper components, and supplier capacity planning.
· Strong understanding of global copper markets, pricing trends, and risk mitigation strategies.
· Exceptional negotiation and contract management skills.
· Ability to analyze cost structures and drive cost-reduction initiatives.
· Data-driven decision maker with measurable results in supplier performance improvement.
· Proficiency in ERP systems and advanced Excel for analytics and reporting.
Education:
· Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, or related field; MBA .
· Certifications: CPSM, CSCP, or CLTD; Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or higher.
What We Offer:
· Competitive pay with performance incentives
· 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision
· 401(k) with company match
· 3 weeks PTO, 8 paid holidays, and 2 floating holidays
Why You Will Love Working with Us:
· Impact: Develop your skills and expertise in a rapidly growing industry, with your work directly influencing the success of mission-critical projects.
· Innovation: Immerse yourself in an environment that celebrates forward-thinking and continuous improvement.
· Collaborative spirit: Work closely with engineers, marketers, and other professionals to bring ideas to life.
· Grow with us: We are committed to your personal and professional development, offering endless opportunities to improve your skills and advance your career
At LayerZero, we are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome and celebrate , and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.