TVS Supply Chain Solutions (TVS SCS)
TVS Supply Chain Solutions Hiring Senior Buyer / Strategic Sourcing Specialist | Chennai
TVS Supply Chain Solutions (TVS SCS) is hiring experienced professionals for the position of Senior Buyer / Strategic Sourcing Specialist at its Chennai location. This is an excellent opportunity for sourcing and procurement professionals with expertise in Strategic Sourcing, Vendor Development, Cost Optimization, Supplier Quality, and Category Management.
🎓 Qualification: Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering (Mandatory)
💼 Experience: 6–12 Years
Key Responsibilities:
* Lead strategic sourcing, supplier identification, RFQ management, commercial negotiations, and contract support.
* Drive vendor development, supplier audits, manufacturing process evaluations, and initial sample approvals.
* Identify cost reduction opportunities through Value Engineering (VE), alternate sourcing, and process improvements.
* Monitor supplier performance across Cost, Quality, Delivery, Service, and Compliance (QCDS) using defined KPIs.
* Collaborate with cross-functional teams to resolve supplier quality issues and improve overall supplier performance.
Required Skills:
* Strategic Sourcing & Procurement
* Supplier Negotiation & Category Management
* Cost Analysis & Vendor Development
* Knowledge of Casting, Forging, and Machined Components
* Strong analytical, planning, negotiation, and communication skills
* Proficiency in MS Office and willingness to travel for supplier visits
How to Apply- TVS Supply Chain Hiring Senior Buyer, Strategic Sourcing Specialist Chennai
Interested candidates can share their updated resume at:
Suggested Subject Line:
Application – Senior Buyer / Strategic Sourcing Specialist
Top 10 Senior Buyer / Strategic Sourcing Interview Questions & Answers
1. What is Strategic Sourcing?
Answer:
Strategic Sourcing is a systematic procurement process that focuses on selecting the right suppliers based on total cost, quality, delivery, capability, and long-term business value rather than just the lowest price. It involves market analysis, supplier evaluation, negotiation, and continuous supplier performance improvement.
2. Explain the RFQ process.
Answer:
The RFQ (Request for Quotation) process typically includes:
- Identifying sourcing requirements
- Preparing RFQ documents
- Sending RFQs to qualified suppliers
- Receiving and evaluating quotations
- Technical and commercial comparison
- Supplier negotiations
- Supplier selection
- Purchase Order (PO) release
3. How do you evaluate a supplier?
Answer:
I evaluate suppliers based on:
- Manufacturing capability
- Quality systems (IATF 16949/ISO 9001)
- Cost competitiveness
- Delivery performance
- Financial stability
- Capacity
- Technical expertise
- Past performance
- Compliance with customer requirements
4. What is Value Engineering (VE)?
Answer:
Value Engineering is a structured approach to improve product value by reducing cost without compromising quality, performance, reliability, or functionality. It includes material substitution, process optimization, design improvements, and alternate sourcing.
5. How do you achieve cost reduction in procurement?
Answer:
Cost reduction can be achieved through:
- Value Engineering (VE)
- Vendor development
- Alternate supplier identification
- Localization
- Long-term contracts
- Process improvements
- Volume consolidation
- Competitive bidding
- Design optimization
6. What are QCDS parameters?
Answer:
QCDS stands for:
- Quality – Product quality and defect levels
- Cost – Competitive pricing and cost optimization
- Delivery – On-time delivery performance
- Service – Responsiveness and supplier support
These KPIs are used to monitor supplier performance.
7. What should be checked during a supplier audit?
Answer:
A supplier audit should verify:
- Manufacturing capability
- Process controls
- Quality management systems
- Production capacity
- Calibration records
- Traceability
- Inspection methods
- Safety and environmental compliance
- Continuous improvement initiatives
8. How do you handle a supplier quality issue?
Answer:
I immediately initiate containment actions, coordinate with Quality and Engineering teams, perform root cause analysis using tools like 8D or 5 Why, implement corrective actions, monitor effectiveness, and follow up until the issue is permanently resolved.
9. Why is supplier development important?
Answer:
Supplier development improves quality, delivery reliability, manufacturing capability, cost competitiveness, and long-term business relationships. It helps build a resilient and efficient supply chain while reducing overall procurement risks.
10. Why do you want to join TVS Supply Chain Solutions?
Sample Answer:
“TVS Supply Chain Solutions is recognized globally for its excellence in procurement and supply chain management. My experience in strategic sourcing, supplier development, commercial negotiations, and cost optimization aligns well with this role. I am excited about contributing to supplier performance improvement and delivering sustainable sourcing solutions.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What experience is required?
Candidates should have 6–12 years of experience in strategic sourcing, procurement, or supplier development.
2. Is an engineering degree mandatory?
Yes. A Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering is mandatory.
3. Which components should candidates be familiar with?
Casting, forging, and machined components.
4. Is travel required?
Yes. Candidates should be willing to travel for supplier visits, audits, and development activities.
5. Where is the job located?
Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
Job Summary
Company: TVS Supply Chain Solutions (TVS SCS)
Position: Senior Buyer / Strategic Sourcing Specialist
Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Experience: 6–12 Years
Qualification: Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering (Mandatory)
Key Skills: Strategic Sourcing, Procurement, Supplier Development, RFQ Management, Vendor Development, Cost Reduction, Casting, Forging & Machined Components
Apply: manikandan.ram@tvsscs.com
To apply for this job email your details to manikandan.ram@tvsscs.com
