Supply Chain Lead

About Lenco Armored Vehicles: Lenco Armored Vehicles is a U.S.-based manufacturer of specialized armored vehicles used by law enforcement, military, fire, and rescue agencies worldwide. Our work directly supports first responders operating in high-risk environments. We offer long-term stability, consistent production schedules, and a mission-driven manufacturing environment. Job Summary: Serves as the senior purchasing and sourcing resource within the Purchasing department. Reporting to the Supply Chain Manager, this position executes strategic sourcing initiatives, supplier selection, supplier development, contract negotiations, and purchasing process support. The role provides day-to-day guidance to Purchasing Representatives while collaborating cross-functionally to build a resilient, reliable supply base supporting vehicle production. What You'll Do: - Identify, evaluate, and qualify alternate suppliers to support ongoing business capacity and capability needs. - Support contract negotiations covering pricing agreements, terms and conditions, stocking agreements, and cost-reduction targets. - Establish supplier scorecards to monitor quality, delivery, and responsiveness, and coordinate corrective actions for non-conformances or rework. - Provide day-to-day technical guidance to Purchasing Representatives and resolve material shortages with internal teams and vendors. - Act as the primary escalation point for critical sourcing challenges, stockouts, vendor engagement, and expediting. - Actively monitor past-due purchase orders and align procurement requirements with production, sales, and service schedules. - Participate in ERP improvement projects, inventory optimization initiatives, and standard operating procedure documentation. What We're Looking For: - 5+ years of progressive experience in purchasing, sourcing, or supply chain within a manufacturing environment. - Proven experience evaluating supplier capabilities, negotiating contracts, and managing vendor performance scorecards. - Strong working knowledge of ERP systems and procurement workflows. - Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and business analytics tools for tracking supply chain metrics. - Demonstrated understanding of inventory control, material requirements planning (MRP), and lean principles. - Excellent negotiation, problem-solving, and cross-functional communication skills across all levels of management. - Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field (or equivalent work experience). Why Work at Lenco: - Professional role with a direct impact on operational efficiency - Stable, full-time work with a growing company - Purpose-driven products that protect first responders and military personnel - Modern office and manufacturing environment - Long-term career growth within a growing U.S. manufacturer