Lead Buyer

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

Core Duties and Responsibilities 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

Education and Experience 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 developed skills within…