Purchasing Manager at EMT International – Hobart, Wisconsin

The Purchasing Manager is responsible for developing and executing sourcing and procurement strategies that ensure the timely, cost-effective acquisition of materials, components, and services necessary for capital equipment manufacturing of commercial printing equipment. This position manages supplier relationships, negotiates contracts, ensures compliance with quality and delivery standards, and leads the Purchasing team in support of production schedules and business objectives.

Responsibilities:

Develop, implement, and manage purchasing strategies aligned with production schedule and company goals for cost, quality, and delivery.

Oversee daily purchasing operations, including purchase order creation, supplier management, and material planning coordination.

Negotiate and establish supplier agreements to secure favorable terms for pricing, lead times, and quality.

Identify and qualify new suppliers to support business growth, capacity, and risk mitigation.

Collaborate closely with engineering, production, and inventory teams to forecast material needs and prevent disruptions.

Collaborate with engineering, production, and quality teams to ensure supplier capabilities align with technical and manufacturing requirements.

Monitor supplier performance metrics (on-time delivery, quality, responsiveness) and drive corrective actions when needed.

Maintain accurate purchasing and supplier data in ERP/MRP systems.

Lead cost reduction initiatives and continuous improvement projects within the supply chain.

Ensure compliance with company policies, safety standards, and applicable regulations.

Supervise, mentor, and develop purchasing staff to enhance departmental effectiveness and professional growth.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Strong knowledge of sourcing mechanical, electrical, and fabricated components; Ability to interpret engineering drawings and specifications for sourcing technical components; Experience in the commercial printing or capital equipment manufacturing industry preferred
• Excellent negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• Strong communication and relationship management abilities
• Strong understanding of manufacturing and supply chain processes, preferably in capital equipment or precision manufacturing environments; Understanding of inventory control, logistics, and production planning
• Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems (e.g., Epicor, SAP, Oracle, or equivalent); Experience with Epicor preferred
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
• Demonstrated leadership and team development abilities

Education, Experience and Training:

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, Business, Engineering, or related field; Will consider an equivalent combination of relevant education and experience
• 5+ years of purchasing or procurement experience in a manufacturing or OEM environment
• 2+ years in a supervisory or management role preferred
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems (e.g., Epicor, SAP, Oracle, or similar).