The Buyer is responsible for sourcing, purchasing, and managing materials, products, and services needed to support business operations. The Buyer owns supplier performance, negotiates pricing and terms, conducts cost and commodity analysis, develops supplier strategies, resolves escalated supplier issues and drives cost savings. This role works closely with suppliers and internal stakeholders to ensure products are purchased at the best value while meeting quality, delivery, and inventory requirements.
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Manage supplier performance related to delivery, capacity, quality, and invoicing issues; develop and execute corrective action plans. Utilize critical thinking, data analysis, and root cause problem-solving methodologies to develop and execute effective supplier recovery and improvement plans
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Drive inventory optimization and long-term sourcing strategies by conducting comprehensive cost analysis and participate in demand forecasting for assigned commodities
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Lead supplier negotiations to achieve optimal cost, quality, and delivery outcomes
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Collaborate with Operations, Sales, Inventory Management, and Finance to develop sourcing strategies, evaluate supplier capabilities, and obtain competitive quotes
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Identify and qualify new suppliers to improve competitiveness, mitigate risk, and support business needs
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Escalate and resolve supply chain issues that may negatively impact operations, customer service, inventory levels, or business performance
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Review and process purchase and transfer requirements to support inventory and operational needs
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Manage purchase orders and resolve delivery, pricing, and invoicing discrepancies
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Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders to drive alignment, improve communication, and support operational excellence
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Support continuous improvement initiatives
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Perform other duties as assigned
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Associate’s degree in Purchasing/Supply Chain Management or equivalent or three to five years of progressive Purchasing/Buying experience
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to work independently and manage priorities
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Excellent negotiation, verbal, and written communication skills
- Strong customer-service focus when collaborating with internal and external stakeholders
- Proven ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects, deadlines, and competing demands
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel, with strong analytical and data interpretation skills
- Strong critical-thinking and problem-solving abilities
- Project management skills with a demonstrated ability to plan, organize, and execute initiatives
- Exceptional attention to detail with a proactive, self-motivated approach to work
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Knowledge of fluid power products or industrial supplies a plus
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Prophet21 or familiarity with procurement-based systems preferred
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ISM certification (CPSM, CPSD, CPM, or APSM) a plus
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Travel up to 10% for supplier visits
