Purchasing and Production Planning Specialist

Objective of the Position: The Purchasing & Production Planning Specialist manages suppliers, procurement activities, material availability, and production scheduling. The role combines strategic procurement (supplier onboarding, negotiation, cost and quality management) with operational planning (material flow, MRP accuracy, demand planning). In close collaboration with the Production Supervisor, this position ensures reliable supply, cost-effectiveness, and smooth production.

Essential Accountabilities: The position incumbent ensures that:

• Strategic Procurement & Supplier Management
  • Identify, evaluate, and onboard suppliers in line with cost, quality, and delivery targets.
  • Lead supplier negotiations and establish long-term agreements.
  • Monitor supplier performance and drive corrective actions.
  • Support cost reduction through cost analysis and sourcing initiatives.
• Operational Purchasing
  • Manage day-to-day purchasing of raw materials, components, and services.
  • Issue and track purchase orders and confirmations.
  • Resolve supply issues or delays to ensure uninterrupted production.
  • Maintain accurate supplier and purchasing data in the MRP/ERP system.
• Production Planning & Material Flow
  • Create and maintain production schedules aligned with demand and inventory.
  • Ensure timely availability of materials and work orders.
  • Forecast material needs and adjust plans as required.
  • Coordinate planning priorities with the Production Supervisor.
• Inventory & Quality Support
  • Monitor inventory levels to balance availability and cost.
  • Ensure suppliers meet quality expectations and document deviations.
  • Collaborate with Production and Quality teams on supplier‑related issues.
• Cross‑Functional Collaboration
  • Work closely with Production, Engineering, Quality, and Shipping.
  • Communicate purchasing and planning risks, shortages, and opportunities.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement in procurement and planning processes.

• Reliable, cost‑effective supply of materials.
• Strong supplier relationships and consistent quality.
• Effective negotiation and onboarding of new suppliers.
• Accurate production planning and MRP data.
• Minimal material shortages and proactive risk mitigation.
• Smooth coordination with the Production Supervisor and other functions.

• Experience in purchasing, procurement, or production planning.
• Strong supplier management and negotiation skills.
• Understanding of cost structures and manufacturing quality requirements.
• Knowledge of inventory management and ERP/MRP systems.
• Solid analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
• Ability to work independently and cross‑functionally.