Purchasing Manager

The Purchasing Manager is responsible for leading and overseeing all procurement and purchasing activities for a growing manufacturing organization. This individual will develop sourcing strategies, manage supplier relationships, negotiate contracts, and ensure the timely acquisition of materials and services required to support operational objectives. The role also provides leadership and direction to the purchasing team while maintaining compliance with company safety, quality, inventory, and production standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and manage the purchasing team, including buyers and purchasing professionals.
• Partner with operations, engineering, production, and leadership teams to identify procurement requirements and develop effective sourcing solutions.
• Evaluate current material availability and forecast future supply needs based on market conditions, supplier performance, and business demand.
• Conduct supplier evaluations and select vendors based on quality, cost, service, reliability, capacity, and overall value.
• Develop, implement, and maintain purchasing policies, procedures, and contract management practices.
• Review and approve purchase requisitions and purchase orders while identifying cost-effective alternatives when appropriate.
• Ensure the procurement of quality materials, equipment, and services at competitive costs while maintaining appropriate inventory levels.
• Lead contract negotiations and serve as the primary company representative in supplier discussions.
• Build and maintain strong supplier partnerships to support long-term business objectives.
• Monitor supplier performance, expedite critical orders, and proactively address delivery or supply chain issues.
• Resolve supplier disputes, shipment discrepancies, and service-related concerns in a professional and timely manner.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on cost reduction, process efficiency, quality, and supplier performance.
• Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience managing purchasing, procurement, or supply chain functions within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong negotiation, communication, and relationship management skills.
• Excellent organizational and time management abilities with a proven track record of meeting deadlines.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and ERP systems, including SAP experience preferred.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and make informed business decisions.
• Proven leadership experience, including team development, coaching, and performance management.
• Ability to prioritize multiple initiatives and effectively delegate responsibilities.
• Solid understanding of manufacturing materials, inventory control, and supply chain best practices.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate across all levels of the organization.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in purchasing, procurement, supply chain management, or a related discipline.
• Prior leadership experience managing purchasing teams within a manufacturing environment strongly preferred.