The Buyer is responsible for sourcing, negotiating, and purchasing materials and services, while providing support to the Purchasing Manager. This role involves conducting thorough research, negotiating supplier contracts, managing inventory, and evaluating supplier performance. The position also offers a positive and supportive work environment, with a strong emphasis on work-life balance and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support employee well-being.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and maintain relationships with qualified suppliers. Solicit quotations and bids to ensure competitive pricing. Lead contract negotiations focused on achieving the lowest total cost while prioritizing safety, service, quality, and timely delivery.
- Issue purchase orders for assigned plant(s), negotiate pricing, arrange for samples, and coordinate sourcing activities with both internal and external stakeholders.
- Serve as a liaison between departments and suppliers to address and resolve any issues related to services, supplies, equipment, or contract execution. Proactively follow up on delayed deliveries and notify relevant parties.
- Maintain and update contract records as new agreements are made or existing ones are renewed or expire.
- Continuously seek cost savings opportunities through market analysis and trend monitoring. Communicate relevant insights to cost center managers.
- Optimize inventory levels for MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Operations) items to support operational needs and meet financial goals.
- Oversee the scheduling and timely execution of annual cycle counts and obsolescence reviews.
- Collaborate with stakeholders to ensure timely and accurate service delivery. Foster professional relationships across departments.
- Work closely with requisitioners to ensure that purchased products and services meet required specifications and needs.
- Understand internal customer requirements to identify process improvements, drive efficiency, and reduce costs.
- Coordinate with Accounting and Requisitioners to verify proper approvals, financial compliance, and account coding for purchase requisitions. Support invoice reconciliation as needed.
- Manage and approve blanket purchase orders, reviewing supplier performance and billing accuracy on a regular basis.
- Participate in committees and initiatives as assigned by the Purchasing Manager.
- Use Microsoft Office tools effectively for analysis and process improvement.
- Continuously explore opportunities to enhance operational performance and meet customer expectations.
- Demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Follow all quality system protocols and procedures.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the Purchasing Manager.
Qualifications:
Education and Certifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Business or a related field required.
- Relevant experience may be considered in place of a degree.
- Professional certification such as Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) from the Institute for Supply Management, or equivalent, is preferred.
Experience:
- Minimum of 3 years of purchasing experience required.
- Experience with SAP is a plus.
Why Join Us:
We believe that supporting our employees leads to better outcomes for everyone. We offer:
- Excellent work-life balance with flexible schedules and a culture that respects your time outside of work.
- Competitive compensation and annual performance incentives.
- Comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, life and disability coverage, and a 401(k) plan with company match.
- Generous paid time off, including vacation, holidays, and personal days.
- Professional development opportunities and support for continued learning and growth.
- A collaborative, inclusive workplace that values your contributions and encourages innovation.
