Prototype Procurement Lead

As a Prototype Procurement Lead, you will be responsible for developing and executing the strategy for prototype and prototype tooling suppliers supporting the Datacom and Specialty Solutions (DSS) Division. This role functions similarly to category management, but with a dedicated focus on prototypes, ensuring Molex has the right suppliers who specialize in and are optimized for prototype work rather than production volumes.

This role ensures the business has a robust, capable, and aligned prototype supply base. By staying current on supplier capabilities, technical roadmaps, and potential production implications, you will help ensure stakeholders are informed, risks are identified early, and transitions from prototype to production are well understood.

This role sits within the Datacom and Specialty Solutions (DSS) division and works cross-functionally with New Product Development, Category Management, and internal Proof of Concept teams. You will operate at the intersection of engineering, procurement, and supplier partners, ensuring alignment between technical requirements, commercial objectives, and supplier capabilities.

The team operates in a fast-paced, innovation-driven environment where speed, flexibility, and collaboration are critical. You will play a key role in building and maintaining strong relationships with prototype suppliers, driving clear communication and supplier engagement to support prototype objectives while maintaining visibility to downstream production considerations.

• Responsible for the strategy development and execution of the prototype and prototype tools spend for the Datacom and Specialty Solutions Division (DSS)
• Develop a world class supply base capable of supporting DSS while driving flexibility, agility and cost competitiveness, in a fast paced, dynamic environment
• Work collaboratively and cross functionally to develop and maintain a preferred supplier list (PSL). Manage supplier evaluation, segmentation, and performance while ensuring supplier technical roadmaps are aligned with Molex Product needs
• Collaborate across the division to ensure the supply base aligns with the technical requirements and commercial objectives to support the overall business needs
• Sustain and strengthen communications and collaboration with key supplier contacts.
• Support Request for Information (RFI) and Request for Quote (RFQ) processes to optimize prototype pricing, transparency and delivery timing
• Interface with internal Proof of Concept team to optimize supplier support of their prototype objectives
• Effectively communicate inside and outside the company
• Drive Supplier Relationship Management with prototype suppliers

• Bachelor's degree in business, supply chain, engineering or similar
• Experience in a combination of procurement focused on mechanical (diecast, stampings, molding etc) and /or PCBA
• Experience in pricing and contract negotiation
• Possess knowledge of manufacturing processes
• Understanding of product development process

Skills & Abilities:

• Strong organizational and program management skills
• Strategy development and implementation
• Advanced negotiation skills
• Persuasive communicator
• Ability to read and understand technical specifications
• Strong communication, analytical, and presentation skills, both verbal & written
• Self-Motivated and able to work autonomously

Travel:

• Up to 30%