Burbank, California

WHAT WE DO AT WET?

We create the world’s biggest and most stunning water features, one example being the Fountains of Bellagio. We have many others, both large and small, but they are always unique and always created by conquering the next creative and technological challenges.

WET infuses life into communities. And by creating these interactive experiences they become anchor attractions all around the world. Our designs blend form, material, patterns and acoustics (just to name a few) and create spectacular places where people feel connected to not only each other but their surroundings as well.

Our team is built of more than 200 highly talented, dedicated, hardworking and passionate-about-what-they-do people.

We have architects, product engineers, chemists, special effects designers, Academy Awards winners, physicists, landscape architects, graphic designers, programmers, inventors, animators, and choreographers just to name a few. It’s a pretty rich environment and well, if you like meeting interesting people who know a whole lot of stuff you never even thought about, this could be the place for you.

Position Overview

WET is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Head of Purchasing to lead our procurement efforts, managing an annual purchasing volume of approximately $30M.

This role is critical in supporting the creation of our innovative and complex water features, including underwater robotic nozzles, advanced computer control systems, and custom-machined components. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional negotiation skills, the ability to build and sustain long-term supplier relationships, and a deep understanding of cost analysis to ensure fair pricing and value-driven procurement.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Procurement Leadership:

Develop and execute a comprehensive procurement strategy to ensure cost-effective and timely acquisition of raw materials, components, and equipment
Lead purchasing efforts for metals, basic electronic components, pumps, and other water-handling equipment, aligning procurement with production schedules and project needs

Negotiation and Supplier Management:

Negotiate pricing, terms, and contracts to achieve cost efficiency while fostering strong, long-term relationships with suppliers
Ensure continuity of supply and high-quality standards through diligent supplier evaluation and performance monitoring

Team Building and Management:

Recruit, mentor, and lead a team of experienced buyers, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and accountability
Develop training programs and performance metrics to enhance team capabilities

Cost Analysis and Value Assessment:

Analyze the cost structures of materials and components to evaluate supplier pricing and ensure fair value
Leverage market insights and cost breakdowns to improve purchasing decisions and identify opportunities for cost savings

Operational Excellence:

Oversee procurement processes, including vendor selection, purchase order management, and contract compliance
Collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, and project management teams to ensure materials meet specifications and delivery timelines
Develop and maintain accurate records, budgets, and reports to support decision-making and improve forecasting

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field (MBA preferred)
Minimum 10 years of experience in purchasing or supply chain management, with at least 5 years in a leadership role
Proven track record of successful negotiation, supplier relationship management, and cost optimization in a manufacturing environment
Expertise in raw materials (metals, electronic components) and mechanical/electrical equipment procurement
Strong analytical skills with the ability to assess cost structures and market trends
Excellent leadership and team-building abilities
Proficiency in procurement software and QuickBooks

Core Competencies

Negotiation Excellence: Skilled in securing the best terms without compromising quality or supplier relationships
Strategic Thinking: Ability to align procurement strategies with organizational goals and long-term vision
Financial Acumen: Proficient in cost analysis, budgeting, and identifying cost-saving opportunities
Relationship Building: Adept at fostering partnerships with suppliers and internal stakeholders
Results-Oriented: Demonstrates a track record of achieving measurable outcomes in procurement performance

Why Join WET?

At WET, we design and manufacture some of the most iconic water features in the world, working with cutting-edge technology and materials to push the boundaries of innovation. As Head of Purchasing, you’ll play a vital role in shaping the foundation of our creations, collaborating with a passionate team dedicated to excellence.

If you have the expertise, vision, and drive to lead a world-class purchasing team, we invite you to apply and become a key part of our journey.

WETis an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment withWETis governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

www.wetdesign.com

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WET (Design) jobs

Head of Purchasing