Job Description

Job Description

Job Description

Scope of Position

The Purchasing Agent/Senior Buyer ensures a continuous and cost-effective supply of purchased materials to support production and business needs. This role requires a balance of analytical thinking, strategic sourcing, vendor relationship management, and inventory control. The ideal candidate will lead initiatives that improve cost, efficiency, and service within the materials value stream while working collaboratively across departments.

Responsibilities

• Monitor inventory levels based on Min/Max and Days-on-Hand targets.
• Review and adjust inventory strategies as business needs evolve.
• Support team members during expedite, quality, or stockout scenarios.
• Ensure purchase prices align with negotiated pricing and monitor purchase price variance (PPV).
• Serve as a backup for other Purchasing Agents, including management of co-manufacturer relationships.
• Review MRP data, issue and track purchase orders, and manage blanket releases for assigned items.
• Oversee purchasing and inventory levels for promotional and special sales items.
• Manage all raw packaging inventory and maintain accurate pricing data.
• Participate in New Product Development (NPD) and special pack configuration meetings.
• Prepare for and attend daily production and weekly team meetings.
• Process supplier returns and ensure credit is received.
• Develop and maintain procurement and inventory management process documentation.
• Report and analyze key inventory performance metrics.
• Share forecasting data with suppliers to ensure readiness and alignment.
• Manage inventory obsolescence for assigned items.
• Contribute to the ongoing development and improvement of ERP systems and processes.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in purchasing, materials, or inventory management.
• Proven negotiation skills and ability to manage vendor relationships.
• Strong understanding of MRP systems, Bills of Materials (BOMs), and Routings.
• APICS certification preferred.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook).
• Experience with ERP systems; Microsoft NAV experience is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, 8D, or similar methodologies.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills.
• Detail-oriented with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks.
• Experience in consumer packaged goods (CPG) and retail packaging procurement is a plus.

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