Sourcing Manager - Transformers

Supply Chain Manager – Transformers

The Supply Chain Sourcing Manager – Transformers is responsible for planning, sourcing, purchasing, logistics, and supplier management across transformer and substation equipment. This role focuses on power transformers, distribution transformers, auxiliary transformers, and associated balance-of-system components to ensure on-time, cost-effective, and high-quality delivery of materials and services.

The role partners closely with Engineering, Operations, Finance, and Quality to align supply chain strategy with business objectives and support safe, reliable, and scalable energy infrastructure deployments.

Category-Specific Responsibilities – Transformers

• Source and manage procurement of power transformers, distribution transformers, pad-mounted units, and related substation equipment.
• Oversee technical specifications for transformer systems, including:
  • Voltage ratings, MVA capacity, and impedance characteristics
  • Cooling systems (ONAN, ONAF, OFAF, etc.)
  • Insulation systems and dielectric performance
  • Losses (no-load and load losses) and efficiency requirements
  • Protection, monitoring, and control systems
• Partner with Engineering on:
  • Transformer sizing and specification development
  • Substation design and system integration
  • Grid interconnection requirements and utility standards
  • Protection schemes and relay coordination
  • SCADA and communication protocols
• Negotiate supply agreements to include pricing, warranties, performance guarantees, spare parts, and long-term service agreements (LTSA).

Strategic Sourcing & Procurement

• Develop and execute sourcing strategies for transformers and electrical infrastructure components.
• Lead supplier selection, qualification, RFQs/RFPs, negotiations, and contracting.
• Manage commercial terms, pricing structures, delivery schedules, and escalation clauses.
• Drive cost optimization through multi-sourcing, should-cost modeling, and total cost of ownership (TCO) analysis.

Supplier Relationship Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with transformer OEMs, EPC partners, and key component suppliers.
• Conduct supplier performance reviews across quality, delivery, cost, and technical responsiveness.
• Lead supplier corrective actions, risk mitigation efforts, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work with Engineering on specifications, equipment selection, and change management.
• Partner with Operations to support project execution, installation, and commissioning.
• Align with Finance on budgeting, cost tracking, and savings initiatives.
• Support Quality in NCR resolution, failure analysis, and supplier audits.

Continuous Improvement & Risk Management

• Monitor market trends in transformer manufacturing, raw materials (e.g., copper, steel), and supply chain constraints.
• Identify and mitigate risks related to long lead times, manufacturing capacity, geopolitical factors, and evolving grid standards.
• Implement process improvements to streamline procurement and improve scalability.
• Develop contingency plans for supply disruptions, quality issues, or performance risks.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or related field.
• 10+ years of supply chain or procurement experience, with 5+ years of transformer, substation, or power systems experience strongly preferred.
• Strong understanding of transformer technologies, grid infrastructure, and industry standards (IEEE, IEC).
• Proven negotiation, analytical, and contract management skills.
• Excellent communication and cross-functional stakeholder management skills.