Patrick Conlee
Freeland,MI
Summary
Accomplished Supply Chain Manager with over 30 years of experience in high-volume manufacturing environments. Expert in directing end-to-end supply chain functions, from strategic sourcing, procurement, to materials management and logistics. Proven track record of leading cross-functional teams to drive cost reductions, optimize inventory flow, and improve supplier relationships. Deeply experienced in Lean Manufacturing principles, offering a hands-on leadership style that aligns with Glastender’s values of quality, integrity, and continuous improvement.
Overview
31
31
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Strategic Buyer – Castings, Assemblies
Nexteer Automotive
04.2024 - Current
- Lead full sourcing process, including RFQ/RFI, technical reviews, and executive approvals. Successfully negotiate contracts for new and carryover components.
- Achieved Annual Savings goals for 2024 and 2025 in excess of $2 million/year
- Establish annual material budgets and perform monthly analysis to ensure alignment with operational cost goals.
- Manage commercial issues and develop commodity strategies that ensure on-time delivery and quality compliance.
- Navigated Metal Tariff issues while continuing to achieve yearly targets
- Lead complex resourcing activities for 4 Major suppliers
- 2- dotted line direct report operational buyers
- Built long-term supplier relationships with vendors to establish quality and competitive pricing.
- Analyzed current vendors and products to stay abreast of market trends and evaluate new suppliers.
- Established relationships with vendors to secure competitive pricing and discounts.
- Developed and managed budgets for purchasing and projected purchasing needs.
- Skilled in evaluating contract terms, identifying risks, and ensuring alignment with procurement policies.
Regional Cost Improvement Manager
Nexteer Automotive
03.2020 - 03.2024
- Implemented strategies to optimize material sourcing and procurement processes, directly supporting manufacturing efficiency.
- Led Value Analysis/Value Engineering (VA/VE) workshops with suppliers, driving cost-saving initiatives across multiple programs to improve margins.
- $1.4 million average yearly savings
- Analyzed material cost trends and developed actionable plans for improvement in a volatile market.
Global Value Enhancement Manager
Nexteer Automotive
01.2018 - 04.2020
- Analyzed $100M in spend, identified $15M in savings, and successfully negotiated $3.5M in immediate savings.
- Managed a mentoring program for the global buyer team, fostering a culture of engagement and professional growth.
Senior Purchasing Program Launch Leader
Nexteer Automotive
03.2012 - 12.2017
- Managed multiple program launches, ensuring BOM accuracy and cost competitiveness.
- Responsible for successfully launching 4 major programs from a supply-side perspective
- Supported APQP timing and launch readiness reviews to ensure smooth transition to production.
Early Career & Operational Leadership
GM/Delphi/Nexteer Automotive
05.1995 - 02.2012
- Buyer – Rubber & Steel/Aluminum Commodities (2008–2012)
- Supplier Development Manager (2004 - 2008), Supplier Development Engineer. Taught Suppliers Lean MFG - based on Toyota Production Systems. Completed $10+ million in savings projects with Nexteer Suppliers
- Production Control General Supervisor (1997–2004): Directly managed material flow, warehousing, and logistics. Gained foundational experience in shipping/receiving operations and inventory control systems. 6 direct reports and 104 hourly reports.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Supply Chain
University of Georgia
Athens, GA01.1995
Skills
- End-to-End Supply Chain Management
- Strategic Sourcing & Procurement
- Warehouse Operations & Inventory Control
- Material Flow & Logistics Optimization
- Lean Manufacturing & Continuous Improvement
- Supplier Relationship Management (SRM)
- Cost Reduction & Value Analysis (VA/VE)
- Cross-Functional Team Leadership
- Contract Evaluation and Negotiation
- Global sourcing
- Cost reduction strategies
- Negotiation expertise
- Procurement planning
- Six Sigma Certifications
Accomplishments
Proven, highly successful experience in Plant Operations, Lean Manufacturing and Purchasing.
Exeptional level of of proficiency in lean skills and planning strategies
Developed Lean Material Flow stragegies instramental in achieving Shingo Award Plant 6
Strong Record of building and developing business relationships.
$40+million in savings initiatives completed
Languages
English
Full Professional
Spanish
Limited Working
Timeline
Senior Strategic Buyer – Castings, Assemblies
Nexteer Automotive
04.2024 - Current
Regional Cost Improvement Manager
Nexteer Automotive
03.2020 - 03.2024
Global Value Enhancement Manager
Nexteer Automotive
01.2018 - 04.2020
Senior Purchasing Program Launch Leader
Nexteer Automotive
03.2012 - 12.2017
Early Career & Operational Leadership
GM/Delphi/Nexteer Automotive
05.1995 - 02.2012
Bachelor of Science - Supply Chain
University of Georgia
LEADERSHIP & COMMUNITY IMPACT
Nexteer Scholarship Fund, Founder. Founded and led a non-profit initiative that raised $500K+ and distributed $250K+ in scholarships to local students (scholarshipgolfouting.com).
Demonstrates a strong commitment to community relationships and organizational culture. 18 years as an active member of the Freeland Community.
have a strong belief in the Team Mentality and empowering people. I have coached athletics, volunteered for countless community activities, mentored employees, and led teams to successfully achieve targeted goals. I have always lived and emphasized Integrity, accountability, and collaboration as fundamental principles