Category Buyer Jobs

Category Manager/Purchasing Agent Position Summary:

This position will be responsible for procuring assigned categories of indirect materials and corporate services while working with internal customers to ensure procurement strategies result in the lowest total cost of ownership and align with the needs of each business unit.

§ Facilitate procurement of materials and services: Review and analyze purchase requisitions, prepare bid specifications, issue bid requests, review quotations, review master agreements, statements of work, and issue purchase orders and contracts.

§ Identify and implement cost reduction efforts, tracking and recording cost savings and avoidances.

§ Identify and select vendors to procure ordered commodities meeting criteria such as price, quantity, quality and delivery date; place orders. Investigating and develop new sources of supplies on an ongoing basis.

§ Manage supplier relationships, resolve supplier issues, and develop suppliers.

§ Interpret and communicate purchasing procedures to departments; assist departments in initiating orders and solve problems with orders.

§ Process purchasing transactions, correspondence and maintain records according to established policies and procedures.

§ Assist manufacturing coaches in setting up spare parts and inventory practices with a basic understanding on lean manufacturing principles.

§ Understand and follow category sourcing strategies, Kraljic category positioning, and market assessments which are aligned with the needs and strategies of internal customers.

Category Manager/Purchasing Agent Position Qualifications:

§ Bachelors Degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, or related field required

§ 3+ years of procurement experience required

§ Industrial/manufacturing experience

§ Solid comprehension of finance and accounting

§ Knowledge of purchasing practices and procedures

§ Knowledge of materials, products, and the commodity market in area of responsibility

§ Knowledge of ERP systems

§ Negotiation skills

§ Ability to interpret contracts

§ Ability to work independently and solve problems in a fast paced environment

§ Analytical skills

§ Accuracy in detailing and verifying information

§ Good interpersonal and communication skills

§ Strong customer service skills

§ Time management and prioritization skills

§ Project management experience

§ Experience as a change agent in an organization

§ Must be highly organized and detail oriented