Purchasing Manager at Press-Seal Gasket Corporation – Fort Wayne, Indiana

Purpose of Position

The Purchasing Manager is responsible for leading the Purchasing Department and serving as a key member of the operational leadership team for a growing manufacturing organization. This role provides strategic direction and oversight of procurement activities, including sourcing, supplier performance management, cost control, and inventory strategy to support manufacturing operations across multiple sites. The Purchasing Manager ensures continuity of supply, drives measurable cost savings, and strengthens supplier partnerships while developing a high-performing team. This position requires an experienced supply chain leader who thrives in a dynamic manufacturing environment and can align procurement strategy with company growth and operational objectives.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Procurement Strategy & Operational Leadership

· Develop and implement procurement strategies that ensure cost-effective, timely acquisition of raw materials and supplies

· Establish sourcing strategies that balance cost, quality, service, and risk mitigation

· Oversee inventory management practices to support service levels and working capital goals

· Monitor purchasing metrics and performance indicators to drive continuous improvement

· Analyze market trends, commodity fluctuations, and supplier capabilities to proactively manage risk and pricing exposure

· Ensure compliance with company purchasing policies and applicable regulations

Team Leadership & Development

· Lead, mentor, and develop the purchasing team to build capability, accountability, and performance

· Establish clear expectations, provide performance feedback, and support professional development

· Foster a culture of collaboration, continuous improvement, and operational excellence

· Allocate workload appropriately to ensure efficiency and responsiveness

· Partner with Human Resources on hiring, performance management, and team development initiatives

Supplier & Relationship Management

· Develop and maintain strong strategic supplier relationships focused on long-term value

· Monitor supplier performance related to quality, delivery, cost, and responsiveness

· Lead contract negotiations, pricing discussions, and supplier performance reviews

· Identify and qualify new suppliers to enhance supply chain resilience

Cross-Functional Collaboration

· Serve as a key liaison between Purchasing and Operations, Engineering, Finance, and Quality

· Support new product launches and engineering changes through strategic sourcing and supplier coordination

· Provide data-driven recommendations to leadership regarding cost trends, risk exposure, and sourcing opportunities

· Collaborate with operational leaders to align procurement strategy with production forecasts and business objectives

Administrative & Reporting Responsibilities

· Oversee purchasing documentation, contracts, and ERP system integrity

· Prepare and present purchasing performance reports, cost savings results, and supplier metrics to leadership

· Ensure accurate forecasting, budgeting input, and purchasing system controls

· Maintain reliable and consistent attendance

· Perform other duties as assigned to support departmental and company objectives

Qualifications

· Strong leadership and team development experience within a manufacturing environment

· Demonstrated expertise in strategic sourcing, supplier relationship management, and cost reduction initiatives

· Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills

· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills across all organizational levels

· Strong negotiation and contract management abilities

· Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel

· Extensive experience with ERP systems

· Ability to travel as needed to suppliers and trade shows

Education and Experience

· 7–10 years of progressive purchasing or supply chain experience, preferably within a manufacturing environment

· Minimum of 3 years of leadership or supervisory experience preferred

· Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, or related field required; advanced degree or professional certifications (CPSM, CPIM, etc.) preferred

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

The Purchasing Manager role requires continuous sitting throughout the workday while performing computer-based tasks and administrative functions. Standing and walking occur occasionally, particularly when moving between offices or visiting departments within the facility. Occasional physical actions such as stooping, bending, pushing, pulling, and kneeling may be required when accessing files, or navigating various work areas. The position requires occasional hand movement and gripping, primarily while handling documents and office materials. Lifting demands include occasional lifts from floor, waist, and overhead levels, with weights ranging from 0–15 pounds. The Purchasing Manager must be able to access and navigate all departments within the organization’s facilities to support operations and employee needs.