What are the responsibilities and job description for the Purchasing Manager position at Certified Laboratories Inc?
Department: Purchasing & Distribution
Reports To: Vice President, Purchasing & Distribution
Position Summary
The Purchasing Manager is responsible for developing and executing procurement strategies that support organizational goals. This role ensures the acquisition of high-quality laboratory supplies, capital equipment, and services at competitive prices while maintaining strong vendor relationships and ensuring timely, accurate deliveries.
The Purchasing Manager works closely with internal partners—including Quality Management, Finance, and end users—to uphold quality standards, resolve discrepancies, and optimize purchasing processes. This position also leads, trains, and develops the procurement team while maintaining an organized and accurate inventory system.
Responsibilities
- Lead and promote a safety-first culture within the department.
- Develop and implement procurement strategies aligned with organizational goals.
- Source, evaluate, and negotiate with vendors to ensure competitive pricing, high quality, and reliable service.
- Oversee the full procurement lifecycle: vendor selection, purchase orders, returns of defective materials, and delivery tracking.
- Collaborate with Finance to resolve pricing discrepancies and other purchasing-related financial issues.
- Utilize the ERP system to analyze purchasing data, identify process improvements, and drive efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
- Coordinate with the customs broker to ensure timely release and delivery of goods.
- Partner closely with Quality Management to maintain quality standards, compliance, and SOPs.
- Lead, train, and manage two Purchasing Specialists, including hiring, coaching, and performance evaluations.
- Provide backup coverage for purchasing team members as needed.
- Perform additional duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Education:
- Bachelor’s degree (BS) in Business, Supply Chain Management, or a related field preferred.
- Equivalent education or experience may be considered.
Experience
- Minimum 5 years of purchasing experience, specifically with laboratory supplies and laboratory capital equipment.
- ERP system experience is required (Microsoft Dynamics preferred).
- Leadership experience is strong desired.
Soft Skills & Competencies
- Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Professional, collaborative, and team-oriented work style.
- Ability to lead teams, manage multiple priorities, and adapt to changing needs.
- Effective organizational and time-management skills.