Purchasing Manager

Company Description

KURZ USA is a leader in hot, cold, and digital transfer technologies, helping brands and suppliers enhance product aesthetics, performance, and sustainability. As part of the global KURZ Group, we combine worldwide expertise with local support through advanced facilities in Charlotte and Lexington, North Carolina, as well as regional distribution centers. Our turnkey solutions span design, equipment, consumables, and sustainability initiatives, ensuring consistent and high-quality results tailored to customers’ needs. With a strong commitment to science-driven innovation, we empower organizations to rethink possibilities in print, packaging, and product enhancement. To learn more, visit kurzusa.com.

Job Summary

The Purchasing Manager is responsible for overseeing the organization’s purchasing activities, ensuring cost-effective acquisition of goods and services while maintaining quality standards and supplier relationships. This role involves strategic sourcing, contract negotiation, vendor management, and continuous improvement of procurement processes.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement procurement strategies aligned with company goals
• Identify , evaluate, and negotiate with suppliers to secure optimal pricing and terms 
• Oversee purchasing processes, including requisitions, purchase orders, and contract management.
• Manage supplier relationships and monitor performance to ensure quality and reliability
• Conduct market research to identify new sourcing opportunities and cost-saving initiatives
• Collaborate with internal department (e.g., finance, operations, logistics) to forecast needs and manage inventory levels
• Manage risk by assessing supply chain vulnerabilities and developing contingency plans
• Monitor inventory levels, production requirements, and communicate with Production team to plan and place orders for raw materials, to arrive in time, as needed, for three production facilities – forecast upcoming levels of demand
• Ensure compliance with company policies, legal regulations, and ethical standards 
• Develop and Apply Supplier Controls and audits
• Analyze procurement data and generate reports on spending, savings, and supplier performance
• Lead and mentor procurement team members.

Skills and Abilities

• Detail-oriented, critical thinker, and proactive approach to avoid potential problems; solid judgement along with decision making skills
• Team orientation and strong organizational understanding  
• Comprehensive understanding of inventory and supply chain managements
• Ability to gather and analysis data and to work with figures
• Professional demeanor with strong verbal and written communication/interpersonal skills 
• Ability to manage priorities in a fast-paced/time sensitive environment
• A knack for negotiation and networking

Experience and Education

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration or related field preferred
• 3 – 5 years purchasing experience. Some chemical purchasing experience preferred
• Supervisory or management experience
• SAP ERP knowledge strong plus
• Computer-literacy: experience in MS Office (SAP, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Project)