Assistant Complex Purchasing Manager

PRIMARY FUNCTION: Primarily responsible assisting Purchasing Manager with general procurement, implementation of purchasing strategies, and management of supplier relationships at Complexes. Other areas of responsibility include assisting with purchasing of materials and services, implementation/management of contracts, including contract negotiation, and supporting corporate initiatives, as well approval of suppliers and inventory control. RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS: Partner with Purchasing Manager, Plant Management and Product Management to eliminate redundancy and manage inventory, including MRO, packaging, and ingredients Develop and maintain relationships with key suppliers and, partnering with corporate and plant management teams, facilitate favorable supplier contract negotiated best pricing Assist with cost saving objectives by managing bids, quotes, pricing and contracts for assigned locations; support and communicate new initiatives/strategies for cost reductions Support purchasing standard operating procedures Assist with Complex purchase order maintenance and initiatives Ensure reporting is accurately completed and recorded as required Perform additional relevant duties as assigned SUPERVISOR RESPONSIBILITIES: None. This is an individual contributor position. Competencies required: Functional/Technical Skills, Action Oriented, Problem Solving, Learning on the Fly and Interpersonal Savvy. EDUCATION and CERTIFICATIONS: Associates’ degree in Purchasing, Supply Chain, Material Management or other related discipline from an accredited institution; Bachelors’ degree preferred American Production & Inventory Control Society (APICS) certification preferred EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS: Minimum three (3) years’ purchasing experience in a production environment Proven supplier contract negotiation and implementation experience Proficient computer and math skills with experience in utilizing Microsoft, Lotus Smart Suite and ERP/MRP systems Demonstrated leadership experience including knowledge of timekeeping requirements, policy adherence, Top 25 behaviors, conflict resolution and the ability to resolve issues efficiently and effectively Strong customer focus with the ability to communicate with internal and external customers in a timely and professional manner Must have exceptional communication, both verbal and written, attention to detail and the ability to resolve issues efficiently and effectively Self-starter who demonstrates strong initiative and sense of urgency, with the ability to work in a fast paced environment Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects while maintaining attention to detail Must possess a strong customer-centric attitude, high energy level and a strong sense of urgency SAFETY REQUIREMENTS: Follow and ensure others follow departmental and company safety policies and programs Wear required protective equipment in all areas where mandatory We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.