Brad Woleslagel

About Brad Woleslagel

Hello, my name is Brad Woleslagel and I am an experienced Global Supply Chain Professional. Over the years, I have worked in a fast-paced and continuously evolving manufacturing environment with a broad and diverse global supply base. My expertise lies in negotiation, supplier relationship management, and strategic sourcing. I have a strong track record of leading and executing innovative ideas to optimize manufacturing direct materials total cost of ownership, delivering cost-savings and bottom-line impact.I have successfully led and worked with teams on plant start-up, supplier/material ramp down and ramp up qualifications. In my current role I am the Head of Global Strategic Sourcing and accountable for over $2.5B in global spend. My experience has allowed me to develop a comprehensive understanding of manufacturing, logistics, and global supply chain operations.In addition to my professional qualifications, I hold a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a specialization in Organizational Leadership from Tiffin University. My education has helped me develop effective leadership skills and enhanced my ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams.Outside of work, I enjoy traveling and experiencing new cultures. I am an active volunteer in my community, supporting local charitable organizations focused on youth development and education.

Experience

1. Head of Global Strategic Sourcing

   First Solar

   Nov 2023 — Present · Perrysburg, OH, US

   As the Head of Global Strategic Sourcing at First Solar, I lead a high‑performing global team responsible for sourcing, purchasing, and planning the procurement of direct and indirect materials across our manufacturing operations in the United States, Malaysia, Vietnam, and India—managing more than $2.5B in annual spend.In this role, I drive the development and execution of a comprehensive Global Sourcing Strategy that aligns with First Solar’s Responsible Sourcing principles and broader ESG objectives. Our team identifies and qualifies suppliers across regions, implement long‑term cost‑optimization initiatives, and conduct deep market analyses to ensure supply continuity, support global capacity expansion, and maintain the highest levels of quality and operational resilience.I have also led our global sourcing organization in qualifying and developing regional and domestic suppliers to support First Solar’s rapid growth—work showcased through the America’s Solar Workers initiative, available at

Education

• Bowling Green State University

  Bachelor of Science (BS), Economics

  2009 — 2012

• Audencia

  International Business

  2011 — 2011

• Tiffin University

  Master of Business Administration (MBA), Organizational Leadership

  2016 — 2017