Customer Service and Supply Chain Specialist
Sumida America Inc.Customer Service and Supply Chain Specialist Sumida America Inc. | Searcy, Arkansas Join Our Team Sumida America Inc. is seeking a highly motivated Customer Service and Supply Chain Specialist to join our team in Searcy, Arkansas. This salaried exempt position plays a key role in ensuring exceptional customer service while supporting purchasing, inventory management, production planning, and supply chain operations within a fast-paced manufacturing environment. The ideal candidate will be customer-focused, analytical, organized, and capable of building strong relationships with customers, suppliers, and internal teams. Position Summary The Customer Service and Supply Chain Specialist is responsible for managing customer relationships, coordinating order fulfillment, forecasting demand, and supporting purchasing activities for production components, magnet wire, MRO items, and services. This role serves as a critical link between customers, suppliers, manufacturing, sales, and operations to ensure timely delivery, cost control, and customer satisfaction. Key Responsibilities Customer Service & Order Management Analyze customer demand through customer portals and direct communications. Manage and coordinate the customer order fulfillment process. Develop manufacturing schedules based on customer requirements and forecasts. Communicate with customers regarding pricing, order acknowledgments, and shipment notifications. Ensure customer adherence to established business processes and agreements. Resolve customer concerns professionally and ethically. Process returns and coordinate replacement products or credit memos. Production Planning & Forecasting Analyze sales trends and historical data to develop forecasts. Assist with production demand planning and scheduling. Support continuous improvement initiatives and cost-saving opportunities. Purchasing & Supply Chain Issue purchase orders for MRO goods and services. Monitor MRP requirements and forecasted component demand. Purchase production materials and components to support customer programs and manufacturing schedules. Assist with supplier negotiations and sourcing activities. Support supplier development and qualification efforts. Monitor supplier performance and help resolve shortages, quality concerns, and delivery issues. Track inbound materials and coordinate expedited freight when necessary. Assist in controlling purchased material costs. Inventory & Supplier Management Oversee component inventory management. Support supplier scorecard and on-time delivery reporting. Maintain awareness of supplier operations and market conditions affecting supply. Team & Quality Systems Support Cross-train with coworkers to provide backup coverage. Participate in ISO 14001 and IATF quality and environmental management activities. Perform additional customer service and purchasing duties as assigned. Qualifications Required Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, or a related field. Strong computer proficiency and experience using business software systems. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Strong organizational, planning, and prioritization abilities. Outstanding customer service skills with a commitment to professionalism and teamwork. Ability to build effective relationships with customers, suppliers, and internal stakeholders. Preferred Manufacturing or automotive industry experience. Experience with ERP/MRP systems. Knowledge of inventory management and demand planning processes. Purchasing or supply chain experience in a manufacturing environment. What We Are Looking For Successful candidates will demonstrate: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Attention to detail and accuracy. Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. A collaborative and customer-focused mindset. Professionalism, integrity, and respect for others. Work Environment Primarily office-based environment. Limited exposure to manufacturing operations. Low …