Job Overview
We are seeking a detail-oriented and strategic Product Purchasing Manager to oversee the procurement and management of products essential to our operations. This role involves balancing multiple objectives such as cost control, inventory availability, risk mitigation, and inventory investment to ensure optimal supply chain performance. The ideal candidate will provide excellent customer service to both internal teams and external partners, ensuring seamless product management and purchasing processes that support overall business goals.
Responsibilities
· Set up and manage new suppliers
· Recommend products for customer applications
· Assist sales effort by obtaining quotes and offering product suggestions
· Cultivate relationships with suppliers
· Negotiate with suppliers
· Buy inventory (From the right supplier, At the right price, At the right time, In the right quantity)
· Ensure the accuracy of relevant data stored in the ERP system, including, but not limited to: (Cost, including inbound freight, Description, Supplier part number, Expected arrival dates)
· Control obsolescence by working with IUS to properly manage ordering controls and observing High-Risk Inventory rules
· Coordinate expediting purchase orders when necessary with the assigned expeditor
· Review requested returns and either approve or deny
· Disposition returned or otherwise discrepant inventory
· Resolve discrepancies between purchase orders and invoices from suppliers with the assistance of the assigned expeditor
· Monitor shelf life and take appropriate action to minimize resulting losses
· Assist customers and sales staff with proper use of the products
· Resolve quality issues with customers and suppliers
· Comply with all the requirements contained in the Employee Handbook, Policy and Procedure Database, Quality Manual, and Quality Policies
· Document all activities in GT’s CRM system
· Monitor and adjust freight estimates as necessary
· Monitor rebate and co-op programs offered by suppliers and take appropriate action to optimize outcomes for GT Midwest
· Communicate with customers about quality and delivery issues as necessary
· Achieve goals for inventory turns, customer service, etc., as documented in Points of Emphasis or elsewhere
Experience
- Proven experience in product management or purchasing management within a relevant industry.
- Strong understanding of supply chain principles, inventory management, and procurement strategies.
- Excellent negotiation skills and the ability to balance cost with quality and risk considerations.
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong communication skills for effective collaboration with suppliers and internal teams.
- Experience using procurement or inventory management software is preferred.
· LANGUAGE SKILLS
· Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business data including MRP reports and blueprints/drawings. Requires advanced written and oral communication skills, as well as the ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from management and customers via oral presentations and written documentation.
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· COMPUTER SKILLS
· Product Purchasing Managers regularly use Microsoft Office products, GT’s ERP system, and a CRM system.
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· MATHEMATICAL SKILLS
· Product Purchasing Managers must be able to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. These skills are necessary in many aspects of the job. Certain Product Categories may require more advanced knowledge of geometry, engineering, and federal regulations.
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· PHYSICAL DEMANDS
· While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; speak and hear; and lift up to 60 pounds. The employee frequently is required to stand, walk, and sit, all for extended periods of time.
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· WORK ENVIRONMENT
Very high energy, sometimes stressful or demanding deadlines and deliverables
Pay: $60,000.00 - $75,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Referral program
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
