Commodity Buyer

Position Summary: 

ACO, Inc. is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Commodity Buyer to lead procurement initiatives that support our operational and strategic objectives. This role is responsible for managing complex procurement activities, negotiating supplier contracts, and driving cost-saving initiatives across multiple categories including direct materials, MRO, and capital expenditures. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of supply chain dynamics, vendor management, and procurement best practices within a manufacturing or industrial environment. 

This position plays a critical role in optimizing supplier performance, mitigating supply risks, and ensuring the on-time delivery of high-quality materials and services. The Commodity Buyer will work cross-functionally with engineering, operations, finance, and quality teams to align purchasing strategies with organizational goals. 

Essential Duties and Functions: 

• Develop and execute strategic sourcing plans for assigned commodities to achieve cost reduction, supplier performance, and lead time targets.
• Lead complex procurement projects including RFQ/RFP processes, supplier evaluations, and contract negotiations.
• Manage long-term supplier agreements, ensuring alignment with corporate and operational goals.
• Monitor market trends, pricing dynamics, and material availability to mitigate risks and capitalize on cost-saving opportunities.
• Analyze MRP and forecast demand to determine appropriate inventory levels and reorder points, ensuring optimal stock without overbuying.
• Proactively expedite critical orders, identify delays, and implement corrective actions to avoid production interruptions.
• Collaborate with Engineering and Quality teams on the introduction of new parts/suppliers, ensuring smooth integration into supply chain processes.
• Manage supplier performance metrics (OTD, Quality, Responsiveness), and conduct quarterly business reviews with key vendors.
• Work closely with Finance and AP to resolve invoicing discrepancies and ensure accurate cost capture in ERP.
• Maintain ERP system with accurate lead times, cost, and supplier information; continuously improve data integrity.
• Support sustainability and supplier diversity goals through responsible sourcing strategies.
• Provide mentorship and guidance to junior buyers or procurement specialists as needed.
• Ensure compliance with all company policies, procedures, and relevant regulations, including SOX controls and internal audits.

Additional Responsibilities: 

• Participate in cross-functional Kaizen and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Collaborate with logistics providers to optimize freight cost and delivery schedules.
• Support the onboarding and qualification of new suppliers, including site audits and risk assessments.
• Evaluate and rationalize the supplier base to improve cost and quality performance.
• Lead or support supplier transition plans due to re-sourcing, obsolescence, or supply issues.

Education and Experience: 

• Bachelor's degree in supply chain, Business, Engineering, or related field (preferred); or equivalent relevant work experience.
• 5-7 years of Buyer experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Proven experience managing high-mix, low-volume procurement processes.
• Supply Chain certification (e.g.,APICS, CPM, CSCP) highly preferred.
• Experience working with ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, or similar); advanced Excel and data analysis skills required.
• Familiarity with ISO standards and regulatory compliance is a plus.

Skills and Competencies: 

• Strong negotiation and contract management skills.
• Advanced analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills—both written and verbal.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and fast-paced environments with minimal supervision.
• Cross-functional collaboration and team leadership.
• Strategic thinking and results orientation.

Additional Eligibility Requirements: 

• High proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Word).
• Strong math and financial acumen, including cost analysis and budgeting.
• Ability to present and communicate procurement strategies to leadership teams.
• Understanding of international trade, Incoterms, and currency exchange.
• 25% or more travel required. 

Physical Demands and Work Environment: 

• Primarily an office-based role with frequent use of computers and telecommunication equipment.
• Occasionally required to stand, walk, or visit suppliers/vendors.
• Must be able to sit for extended periods and work in a fast-paced office environment.