Manufacturing Purchasing Director

Overview

Our client, a well-established manufacturing enterprise in the Kansas City metropolitan area, operates multiple production sites focused on lighting systems and harness manufacturing. They are part of a larger corporate structure encompassing six distinct companies, fostering cross-divisional collaboration that includes injection molding operations, import/export services, and comprehensive manufacturing solutions. Following an unforeseen change in leadership, they are actively seeking a seasoned Purchasing Director to oversee their purchasing functions and provide direction to a committed team of procurement specialists.

• Drive cost reduction strategies through strategic sourcing, commodity management, supplier consolidation, and innovative supply chain approaches
• Oversee material planning and inventory management to ensure timely fulfillment of customer orders while optimizing stock levels
• Create and maintain quantifiable performance indicators for purchasing operations, encompassing vendor performance, quality benchmarks, order processing efficiency, and material availability
• Provide leadership and professional development to a purchasing department consisting of three buyers (including one senior-level buyer and two buyer positions)
• Collaborate with new product development teams to achieve cost targets and develop comprehensive cost modeling
• Cultivate and oversee supplier partnerships across an international vendor network
• Facilitate cross-divisional purchasing coordination among multiple business units and affiliated companies
• Formulate and execute holistic procurement strategies covering raw materials, finished products, supplies, and contracted services
• Communicate procurement metrics and improvement initiatives to senior leadership
• Negotiate and finalize purchase agreements and supplier contracts to support essential business functions
• Oversee cost savings programs in alignment with profitability goals
• Engage with executive leadership and team members at all organizational tiers

• Required Qualifications
• Demonstrated success in achieving significant material cost reduction objectives
• Proficiency with computer systems and Windows-based software applications
• 7-10 years of advancing responsibility in procurement with substantial manufacturing industry background
• Strong verbal and written communication capabilities
• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Purchasing, or Production/Operations Management
• Capability to orchestrate multi-departmental initiatives across the organization to accomplish goals
• Comprehensive knowledge of packaging materials and related commodity categories
• Superior organizational capabilities and analytical problem-solving skills
• Background in leading and mentoring purchasing team members

• Preferred Qualifications
• Background in multi-site or multi-entity corporate environments
• Industry certifications including CPM (Certified Purchasing Manager), CPSM (Certified Professional in Supply Management), CSM (Certified Supply Manager), or similar credentials
• Familiarity with vendor managed inventory (VMI) systems, supplier consignment arrangements, and progressive supply chain methodologies
• Background in strategic procurement roles within medium- to large-scale manufacturing organizations

Compensation: Annual base salary ranging from $107,000 to $115,000

Benefits Package: Full benefits program featuring medical coverage, 401(k) retirement savings plan, and standard corporate benefits

Time Off: Attractive vacation allowance and leave programs

Statement: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are Equal Opportunity Employers. For all positions, whether with Keller Executive Search or our clients, qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, skin color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.

Commitment to Diversity: Keller Executive Search and its clients are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where all individuals are valued and respected.

Reasonable Accommodations: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities and pregnant individuals. We engage in an interactive process to determine effective, reasonable accommodations.

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