Purchasing Manager

Job Title: Purchasing Manager

Overview:
A dynamic and growing global manufacturing organization is seeking an experienced Purchasing Manager to lead a global team of buyers and ensure uninterrupted supply chain operations. This role is pivotal in managing procurement and purchasing activities across multiple regions, with a strong emphasis on collaboration with Engineering, Manufacturing, and Production Control teams.

The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in buying, supply chain management, team leadership, ERP system and analytics, and sourcing in a high-SKU, high-mix environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee and approve purchase orders and change notices; monitor exception messages to maintain production schedules.
• Partner with internal stakeholders (Product Management, Sales, Operations) to align inventory strategies with business goals.
• Enhance procurement processes to ensure supplier compliance with delivery timelines and product specifications.
• Escalate supply risks to leadership and develop contingency plans for critical suppliers.
• Guide buyer/planners through supplier quality issues, including root cause analysis and corrective actions.
• Resolve purchasing, delivery, receiving, and payment issues efficiently.
• Drive cost reduction initiatives through spend analysis, supplier collaboration, and cost modeling.
• Manage multiple procurement projects, ensuring timely part approvals and successful launches.
• Conduct market research and trend analysis to inform purchasing decisions.
• Negotiate supply agreements and develop category strategies.
• Lead and mentor a team of Procurement Buyers, fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Professional certifications (e.g., APICS, ISM) are a plus.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in procurement, sourcing, or supply chain management, ideally with 1-2 years of global leadership.
• Strong negotiation, analytical, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• Proficiency with ERP systems (experience with Epicor is a plus).
• Familiarity with global sourcing and compliance standards.

Preferred Skills:

• Basic understanding of manufacturing processes (e.g., metal forming, casting, molding, machining, assembly).
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Demonstrated success in high-pressure environments.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Prior experience leading and developing teams.