Buyer

BuyerThe Buyer is responsible for managing the procurement of all materials, supplies, and services required to support production operations. This role ensures the timely availability of materials while maintaining optimal inventory levels to support uninterrupted production schedules and efficient inventory flow. The Buyer also manages vendor relationships, including supplier selection, contract negotiation, pricing agreements, and overall supplier performance to ensure quality, cost-effectiveness, and reliable delivery.ResponsibilitiesSource potential vendors, evaluate and interview to determine vendors best suited to provide quality and cost-effective materials and equipment.Attend meetings and other conferences to stay current with industry trends and make contacts with suppliers.Negotiate vendor contracts to obtain the most cost-effective pricing according to the quantity and quality required for the operation of the business.Assist the Expeditor with vendor relationships to ensure quality service and timely deliverables. Terminate vendor relationships as needed due to unsatisfactory vendor services or product quality.Coordinate production material activities including the creation of purchase orders. Including running Safety Stock report monthly and re-order material as necessary. Work with the Planner and Scheduler to plan, develop and monitor the production schedule to achieve the quantity, type and timeline of required finished goods to meet customer demands. Develop and analyze ERP reports. Monitor inventory levels to ensure inventory amounts are sufficient to meet production requirements utilizing ERP report or to avoid potential material shortages.Prepare purchasing-related reports for management use as required.Troubleshoot planning, scheduling and purchase order discrepancies, working with internal and external contacts to minimize uninterrupted production.Provide recommendations during the product design phase in the areas of identifying supply materials which would be required and forecasting material suitability, cost and quantity required for new products.Work with management to drive cost savings through process improvement and negotiating.QualificationsAssociates Degree in business or procurement preferred.3-5 years buyer/planner experience.Professional demeanor and good communication skills with the ability to work well with others in a fast-paced environment. Demonstrates strong organizational skills (record keeping, time management, follow up, etc.).Strong verbal and written communication skills.Excellent attention to detail and sense of urgency, ability to prioritize with an emphasis on quality and accuracy of work.Strong interpersonal and customer service skills required with varying levels of internal employees and external contacts.Ability to multi-task, prioritize and deal with interruptions while meeting timely deadlines. Strong problem solving skills and ability to work under pressure.Proven negotiation skills.Working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel and ERP systems.