Lead Buyer

Lead Buyer

Lead Buyer Status:
Exempt (salaried) Department:
Purchasing/Supply Chain

The Lead Buyer serves a critical role to Plug Power by working to procure necessary parts and components in support of the manufacturing operation and other critical business functions. In addition, the lead buyer manages a small team of buyers, setting expectations and guiding the team on effective operations. The ideal candidate for this role must be a diligent and thorough task executor who can effectively manage multiple priorities with clarity and focus.

The Lead Buyer role must establish very strong and mutually beneficial relationships with suppliers and therefore requires dynamic interpersonal skills. A most successful Lead Buyer exhibits timely and accurate transactional work, outstanding cross-functional collaboration, proactive communication skills, and unwavering follow-up to ensure completion of critical tasks and projects. A Lead Buyer is able to self-manage projects and company initiatives with limited direction required from management.

The Lead Buyer may be involved in negotiating short- and long-term agreements, incorporating strategic purchasing initiatives, and developing and implementing procurement strategies. The Lead Buyer is a critical and value-added member of the supply chain organization.

• Manage small team of buyers, setting expectations and guiding the team on effective operations.
• Perform transactional duties including placing of purchase orders to procure material in support of manufacturing and other business functions.
• Build and maintain effective cross-functional relationships; communicate regularly to maintain an understanding of timelines and activities which impact supply chain.
• Act as a primary partner to the manufacturing operation by understanding build schedules and managing supply chain activities to increase efficiency and eliminate downtime.
• Take responsibility for accurate and on-time delivery of parts and components; follow-up on PO’s with suppliers and manage delivery date expectations as necessary with all relevant stakeholders.
• Understand material specifications and quality metrics affecting assigned parts and components; work collaboratively to resolve quality issues with suppliers.
• Develop strong relationships with suppliers and communicate regularly; manage date pull-ins and push-outs on an ongoing basis.
• Leverage positive working relationships with suppliers based upon mutual benefit; seek favorable terms and conditions which positively impact pricing, quality, payment terms, and others as applicable.
• Track supplier performance and provide regular feedback to relevant stakeholders; set clear expectations with suppliers and work to add/replace suppliers as needed for optimal business results.
• Collaborate with colleagues in the finance department to resolve supplier payment issues.
• Represent Plug Power in a professional manner at all times and in all interactions.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

• Masters degree in Engineering, Business, or other applicable field of study and two (2) or more years of related work experience; experience within a technology manufacturing environment is highly preferred OR Bachelors degree in Engineering, Business, or other applicable field of study and five (5) or more years of related work experience; experience within a technology manufacturing environment is highly preferred
• Management experience preferred
• Must be capable of working independently, in a fast-paced environment, with minimal supervision
• Demonstrated analytical abilities with strong attention to detail
• Superior communication skills
• Proficient with Microsoft Office software including highly…