Packaging Buyer

About Us

Imagine the innovation and expertise behind the world’s leading cosmetic brands, brought to you by a distinguished Italian company with a legacy of excellence. Since 1972, Intercos Group has been at the forefront of color cosmetics, pencils, nail polish, skincare, and personal care products. We pride ourselves on being the only cosmetics manufacturer that combines top-tier quality and advanced technology with a global reach and a personalized touch.

With 16 commercial offices and 16 production facilities across 12 countries, Intercos Group brings a local approach to a global stage. We continually set the standard for beauty, crafting exceptional product lines for brands worldwide. As one of the largest suppliers in the cosmetics industry, we are a leading force in the research, development, and production of beauty products, shaping the future of the industry with every season.

Position Summary

The Packaging Buyer is responsible for the strategic sourcing, procurement, and supply assurance of primary and secondary packaging components to support production, quality, cost, and service objectives. This role partners closely with suppliers and cross-functional teams including Planning, Production, Quality, R&D, Project Management, Customer service partners to ensure timely availability of packaging materials—including bottles, jars, tubes, closures, cartons, labels, and corrugate—while driving cost efficiency, supply continuity, and operational excellence.

Essential Functions

Procurement & Execution

• Manage end-to-end procurement of primary (bottles, jars, tubes, closures, pumps) and secondary packaging (folding cartons, labels, corrugate, inserts)
• Convert MRP requirements into purchase orders, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and alignment with production schedules
• Monitor order status, expedite deliveries, and resolve supply issues across multiple packaging categories
• Coordinate international purchasing activities and ensure alignment with global stakeholders
• Supplier Management & Negotiation
• Develop and manage a diverse supplier base across plastic, glass, metal, label, and paperboard/corrugate suppliers
• Lead commercial negotiations including pricing, MOQs, payment terms, lead times, and service agreements
• Drive annual cost savings initiatives across both primary and secondary packaging categories
• Establish supplier performance metrics and manage ongoing supplier evaluations (OTIF, quality, responsiveness)

Supply Planning & Inventory Management

• Partner with Planning and Supplier teams to ensure packaging availability aligned with demand and production plans
• Review and optimize safety stock levels and inventory strategies for both primary and secondary packaging
• Balance service levels with working capital targets (inventory days, MOQ optimization)
• Anticipate and mitigate supply risks (capacity constraints, long lead times, seasonal demand spikes)

Master Data & Process Management

• Maintain accurate item master data, pricing, and supplier information in ERP systems (e.g., SAP, AS400)
• Support new supplier onboarding in coordination with Finance and Accounting
• Ensure compliance with procurement policies, documentation, and audit requirements
• Improve procurement workflows and lead time visibility

Job Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business Administration, Packaging Engineering, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 3–5 years of purchasing or procurement experience, preferably in packaging, cosmetics, personal care, or a manufacturing environment.
• Experience sourcing from domestic and international suppliers and managing vendor relationships.
• Strong knowledge of packaging materials such as bottles, jars, tubes, caps, pumps, labels, cartons, and corrugate.
• Understanding of purchasing processes, inventory control, lead times, and cost management.
• Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems preferred and proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
• Knowledge of GMP, regulatory, and quality standards preferred
• Exposure to global sourcing (Asia/Europe) and logistics preferred
• Strong negotiation and supplier management skills
• Analytical mindset with ability to interpret cost structures and market trends
• Proficiency in Excel and data analysis
• Strong organizational and multitasking capabilities
• Excellent cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder management
• Problem-solving mindset with ability to manage supply disruptions

Job Benefits

Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage

Retirement Plans: 401(k) plan, often with company matching

Life Insurance: Coverage for employees in the event of death or disability

Paid Time Off (PTO): Vacation days, sick leave, and personal days

Holidays: Paid company holidays and floating holidays

Professional Development: Training programs and opportunities for career advancement

Company Events: Team-building activities, social events, and company outings

Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): Confidential counseling and support services for personal and professional issues.

EEO

Intercos Group is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone is valued and respected. We believe that a wide range of perspectives and experiences enhances our innovation and success. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other legally protected status. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to any of these characteristics. We are dedicated to providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment and promotes equal opportunity for all.