Buyer/Planner

Role Overview:

The Buyer Planner is responsible for sourcing and procuring raw materials, components, tooling, equipment, and services that meet company standards for quality, cost, and delivery. This role requires strong analytical, organizational, and negotiation skills to ensure optimal supply chain performance and inventory management.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Research, analyze, and forecast buying trends, market conditions, and product availability with attention to target markets and production needs.
• Oversee and maintain accurate inventory levels to support production schedules and minimize excess stock.
• Maintain and update Syspro forecasts, MRP parameters, and related procurement data.
• Perform vendor analysis to achieve the best combination of quality, price, and delivery terms.
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with suppliers, vendors, and industry contacts through regular communication and participation in professional networks.
• Prepare, issue, and manage purchase orders within the ERP system, ensuring timely and accurate processing.
• Manage and maintain vendor quotations, purchase order records, and related documentation.
• Coordinate and monitor quotation requests for new materials and components.
• Evaluate and mitigate financial risks associated with purchasing decisions, including inventory costs and floor space constraints.
• Collaborate with production scheduling and logistic team daily about materials availability.
• Execute weekly forecast review and participate in SIOP meetings.
• Perform additional related duties assigned to support departmental and organizational objectives

Key Performance Indicators:

• Supplier On-Time Delivery (OTD): = 95%
• Material Shortages: = 2 per month impacting production
• Inventory Accuracy: = 98%
• Inventory Turnover Ratio: 4 turns per year
• Purchase Order Cycle Time: 15th of every month
• Cost Control – PPV & Avoidance 

Education/Experience and Required Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Economics, or related field strongly preferred. Equivalent in experience taken into considerations.
• 2-4 years of direct purchasing experience.
• Knowledge working with Syspro or similar ERP software strongly preferred.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Software (Outlook, Word, Excel) and Adobe.
• APICS Certification and Import Experience is a plus.
• Excellent interpersonal and negotiation skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills. 
• Ability to function well in a high-paced and, at times, stressful environment.
• Strong understanding of supply chain management concepts as they relate to distribution.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment:

• Primarily office based work.
• Must be able to frequently use hands and talk or hear.   
• Must be able to occasionally stand, walk and reach with hands and arms. 
• The noise level in the work environment is low.

Qualifications:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.