Director of Buying & Planning

Job Description: Location: East Rutherford, NJ

Employment Type: Full-Time (Onsite, 5 Days a Week)

About the Role

We are seeking a strategic and results-driven Senior Supply Chain Manager – Buying & Planning to lead procurement, demand planning, and inventory management operations. This position will oversee a team of buyers, drive vendor relationships, and ensure supply chain alignment with sales, production, and big box retail partners. The ideal candidate has experience managing complex supply chains, negotiating with major suppliers, and optimizing purchasing strategies to meet organizational and customer demands.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and mentor a team of 4–5 buyers, providing guidance on sourcing strategies, negotiations, and vendor management.
Develop and execute supply chain strategies to maintain optimal inventory levels and support production and sales targets.
Manage procurement activities, including sourcing, vendor evaluation, and contract negotiations with suppliers and manufacturers.
Partner with big box retail customers (e.g., Walmart, Target) to align supply, inventory, and delivery schedules with customer requirements.
Monitor and analyze sales performance, demand trends, and inventory data to adjust forecasts and procurement plans.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams (sales, finance, operations, and logistics) to streamline product flow and ensure timely fulfillment.
Drive cost optimization initiatives, identifying opportunities for savings while maintaining product quality and service levels.
Oversee domestic & overseas import activities and ensure compliance with international shipping and sourcing requirements.
Report into CFO

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Finance, or a related field.
5+ years of experience in supply chain management, buying, and demand planning; prior experience in a leadership role required.
Proven success managing procurement and inventory for big box retailers.
Strong negotiation and vendor management skills.
Proficiency in ERP systems, demand planning tools, and Microsoft Excel.
Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
Strong communication skills and ability to work across multiple departments.

Overview

Opportunity to shape and lead a critical supply chain function.
Work closely with major retail partners on high-visibility projects

Equiliem

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