Buyer

Reports to: Purchasing Manager

Job Type: Full-time

FLSA Classification: Exempt (Salary)

Job Summary: As a Buyer, you will be responsible for purchasing products and materials required to meet customer demand and maintain optimal inventory levels. This role involves sourcing suppliers, placing purchase orders, monitoring delivery timelines, and ensuring that purchases are made cost-effectively and efficiently. The Buyer plays a critical role in supporting the company’s supply chain and ensuring the availability of products for distribution.

Essential Job Functions:

• Vendor Management: Manage vendor relationships, negotiate contracts, and evaluate vendor performance to ensure high-quality products and services at competitive prices. Includes identifying and developing new vendors and products.
• Purchasing Process: Oversee the end-to-end purchasing process, including purchase orders, inventory control, and discrepancy resolution (buyer will own the discrepancy process while collaborating with other departments for resolution).
• Cost Optimization: Drive cost-saving initiatives and work with cross-functional teams to identify opportunities for cost improvements while maintaining product quality and service levels.
• Market Research: Stay current with market trends, industry changes, and competitor activities to make informed purchasing decisions.
• Contract Negotiation: Negotiate favorable terms and conditions with vendors, including price, delivery schedules, and payment terms.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with departments such as Marketing, Sales, Customer Care, and Accounting to ensure a seamless supply chain and address any procurement-related issues.
• Inventory Management: Monitor stock levels to ensure the availability of critical materials while avoiding overstock or stockouts.
• Continuous Improvement: Maintain an open mind and focus on identifying areas of inefficiency, discerning between symptoms and root causes, and working across functions to drive sustainable solutions.

Requirements:

• Education: Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Procurement, or a related field.
• Experience: Minimum of 2 years of experience in procurement or purchasing, ideally in a wholesale, distribution, or supply chain environment.
• Skills:
• Strong negotiation and contract management skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Analytical mindset with the ability to solve complex problems
• Proficiency in procurement software (e.g., SAP, Oracle, etc.) and with data within software platforms (e.g., Excel, Power BI, etc.)
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• In-depth knowledge of supplier market trends and sourcing strategies
• Attributes:
• Detail-oriented and highly organized
• Self-motivated with a proactive approach to problem-solving
• Collaborative team player

Preferred Qualifications:

• Product Knowledge: Familiarity with the company’s products and services or industry experience.

Physical Requirements/Demands:

• Must be able to be stationary (sit or stand) for durations of time
• Work is performed in an office environment and requires the ability to operate standard office equipment.
• If work is performed in a remote setting (home), must have a designated area for work to maintain focus and professionalism, and a stable internet connection.
• Must be able to travel (conventions, trade shows, vendor headquarters, etc.) out of state for up to one week at a time.
• Must have the ability to lift and carry small parcels, packages, and other items, and to walk short distances.

Whitaker Corporation is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. In keeping with our commitment, Whitaker Corporation will take the steps to assure that people with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations. Accordingly, if reasonable accommodation is required to fully participate in the job application or interview process, to perform the essential functions of the position, and/or to receive all other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact Matt Reiner at 724-334-7000 ext 214.