Oversees the daily activities of the purchasing function. Maintains relationships with vendors or suppliers and negotiates contracts for more complex purchase orders. Evaluates and analyzes purchasing trends and price trends to identify forecasting demand and minimize purchasing costs. Requires a bachelor's degree or its equivalent. Typically reports to a manager. Supervises a small group of para-professional staff in an organization characterized by highly transactional or repetitive processes. Contributes to the development of processes and procedures. Thorough knowledge of the functional area under supervision. Typically requires 5 years' experience in the related area as an individual contributor.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES- Establish and lead sourcing strategies for critical product categories, setting cost and quality targets that support organizational goals.
- Lead complex, multi-supplier negotiations and contract management, representing ASI interests and ensuring favorable terms.
- Drive cross-functional sourcing initiatives, collaborating with engineering, operations, and finance to solve systemic supply chain challenges.
- Develop and mentor Buyer I-III team members, building capabilities and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
- Analyze market trends, supplier performance, and spend data to identify strategic opportunities for cost savings and risk mitigation.
- Champion process improvements and best practices in purchasing, implementing systems and standards that raise organizational purchasing capability.
ESSENTIAL EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE, JOB SKILLS- Bachelor's degree required
- Purchasing expert; may lead complex negotiations and provide mentoring
- Strong communication and organizational skills
- Detail-oriented and experienced with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- ERP system experience (SAP preferred)
- Strong understanding of purchasing workflows and principles
- Comfortable in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment
