Senior Purchasing Specialist

Job Title: Senior Purchasing Agent

Position Summary

The Senior Purchasing Agent is responsible for managing the procurement of materials, components, and services required to support operations at a single manufacturing site. This role ensures uninterrupted production through strategic sourcing, supplier management, cost control, and inventory optimization. The position works closely with production, engineering, quality, and finance teams to align purchasing strategies with operational goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Procurement & Sourcing: Source and procure raw materials, components, and services to meet production requirements.
• Develop and execute sourcing strategies to ensure cost competitiveness and supply continuity.
• Evaluate and select suppliers based on quality, cost, delivery, and reliability.
• Supplier Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers.
• Negotiate pricing, contracts, and terms to achieve favorable outcomes.
• Monitor supplier performance and implement corrective actions when necessary.
• Production Support: Ensure timely availability of materials to support production schedules.
• Collaborate with planning and operations to forecast demand and mitigate supply risks.
• Resolve supply disruptions quickly to minimize production downtime.
• Cost Control & Continuous Improvement: Identify cost-saving opportunities and lead cost reduction initiatives.
• Analyze purchasing data to drive informed decisions and improve efficiency.
• Support lean manufacturing and continuous improvement efforts.
• Inventory Management: Optimize inventory levels to balance working capital and service levels.
• Monitor stock levels and coordinate replenishment strategies.
• Reduce excess and obsolete inventory.
• Compliance & Documentation: Ensure purchasing activities comply with company policies and regulatory requirements.
• Maintain accurate records of purchases, contracts, and supplier agreements.
• Support audits and reporting requirements.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with engineering on new product introductions and supplier qualifications.
• Partner with quality teams to address supplier quality issues.
• Coordinate with finance on budgeting, cost tracking, and invoice resolution.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 2-5 years of purchasing or procurement experience in a manufacturing environment or distribution.
• Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, or similar).
• Solid understanding of manufacturing processes and supply chain dynamics.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and data analysis.