Sourcing Manager

Description:

Wenaas Workwear USA, Inc., a division of global PPE leader Wenaas, is seeking a strategic and experienced Sourcing Manager – Americas to join their on-site team in Houston, Texas. This vital role reports directly to the General Manager – Americas and coordinates closely with the Norwegian sourcing headquarters. The position focuses on developing and managing a competitive supplier base across North, Central, and South America, ensuring best-in-class delivery of PPE and workwear products.

Company Overview:
Wenaas is a global name in head-to-toe Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), known for delivering high-quality safety apparel to industrial workforces. With deep roots in Norway and expanding operations in the Americas, Wenaas Workwear USA, Inc. is rapidly growing and focused on delivering regionally tailored workwear and PPE solutions.

Key Responsibilities:

🔹 Sourcing & Manufacturing Oversight

• Identify, evaluate, and develop relationships with manufacturing partners across the Americas.

• Lead RFQs, cost evaluations, and vendor capability assessments.

• Ensure all suppliers adhere to quality, compliance, and sustainability standards.

🔹 Supplier Contract Negotiation

• Negotiate favorable terms with both Wenaas-branded and third-party PPE suppliers.

• Diversify sourcing strategies to mitigate risks and improve delivery metrics.

• Drive continuous improvements in pricing, product quality, and lead time.

🔹 Supply Chain & Inventory Management

• Align sourcing with supply chain planning and logistics to optimize inventory.

• Minimize stockouts and reduce excess inventory through proactive sourcing.

🔹 Product & Merchandising Integration

• Work with product development and merchandising to align sourcing with market demands and innovation.

• Support new product introductions with sourcing and manufacturing coordination.

🔹 Cross-Functional Leadership & Communication

• Act as the key liaison between U.S. operations and Norwegian headquarters.

• Provide detailed sourcing data and strategic input to senior leadership.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, International Trade, or related field.

• Minimum of 7 years of experience in global sourcing or manufacturing.

• Demonstrated success in supplier negotiation and relationship management.

• Strong communication, analytical, and organizational skills.

• Knowledge of compliance, quality control, and production in PPE/apparel.

• Regional sourcing experience in Latin America, North America, or the Caribbean.

• Willingness to travel as required.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Spanish proficiency (written and spoken); Portuguese is a plus.

• Familiarity with international trade regulations and compliance practices.

• Experience with ERP or planning software (e.g., SAP, NetSuite, Oracle).

What We Offer:

• Competitive base salary with performance-based bonuses.

• Comprehensive benefits including health, dental, and 401(k).

• Paid travel and potential relocation support for strategic hires.

• Collaborative, mission-driven work environment with global impact.