What are the responsibilities and job description for the Buyer position at Leatherman Tool Brand?
Buyer
Leatherman Tool Group | Portland, Oregon
Help Build the World's Most Trusted Multi-tools
At Leatherman, we believe every detail matters. Behind every multi-tool that reaches our customers is a dedicated Supply Chain team ensuring the right materials arrive at the right time, at the right cost, and with uncompromising quality.
We're looking for a collaborative, analytical, and proactive Buyer to join our Supply Chain team. In this role, you'll work closely with suppliers, manufacturing, planning, engineering, quality, and finance to ensure uninterrupted production while driving continuous improvement throughout our supply chain.
If you enjoy solving problems, building supplier relationships, leveraging data to make informed decisions, and making a direct impact on manufacturing operations, we'd love to hear from you.
What You'll Do
- Manage the procurement of raw materials, components, packaging, MRO supplies, and subcontracted services that support Leatherman's manufacturing operations.
- Develop inventory strategies that balance customer demand, production flow, inventory investment, and material availability.
- Analyze demand using ERP/MRP systems and place purchase orders to support production schedules while maintaining optimal inventory levels.
- Build strong supplier partnerships by managing delivery performance, resolving quality and delivery issues, and supporting cost reduction initiatives.
- Drive continuous improvement by implementing Lean supply chain practices such as Kanban, Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI), replenishment strategies, and process improvements.
- Maintain accurate ERP data including purchase orders, supplier information, inventory transactions, bills of material, and planning parameters.
- Monitor supplier performance, communicate forecasts, manage open orders, and proactively mitigate supply risks before they impact production.
- Partner with Manufacturing, Planning, Engineering, Quality, and Accounts Payable to ensure materials flow efficiently throughout the organization.
What We're Looking For
- A collaborative team player who enjoys building strong relationships with suppliers and internal business partners.
- A proactive problem solver who anticipates challenges and develops practical solutions.
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data, identify trends, and make sound business decisions.
- Excellent communication, organization, and negotiation skills.
- Someone who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and embraces continuous improvement.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Operations, or a related field preferred.
- Two (2) or more years of purchasing, supply chain, production planning, supplier scheduling, or manufacturing experience.
- Experience working in a Lean manufacturing environment preferred.
- Experience utilizing ERP/MRP systems to manage purchasing and inventory.
- Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications.
Why Leatherman?
For more than 40 years, Leatherman has built premium tools trusted by professionals, first responders, military personnel, tradespeople, outdoor enthusiasts, and everyday users around the world.
When you join Leatherman, you'll become part of a team that values:
- Collaboration
- Innovation
- Continuous Improvement
- Integrity
- Craftsmanship
- Respect for People
You'll have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact while working alongside talented people who are passionate about building exceptional products.
If you're ready to help shape the future of Leatherman's global supply chain, we'd love to hear from you.