Admin-Buyer-1st shift

#26-0486

Columbus, Indiana, USA Job Description

JOB DESCRIPTION: We are seeking a results-driven Indirect/Direct Buyer to support our automotive manufacturing operations. This role is responsible for sourcing and procuring indirect materials and services—including MRO supplies, tooling, capital equipment, and facility-related needs—ensuring uninterrupted plant operations.

The ideal candidate will have experience in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and a strong understanding of indirect procurement, supplier management, and cost control. This position works cross-functionally with engineering, maintenance, operations, accounting, and external suppliers to deliver high-quality, cost-effective solutions.

Kery Responsibilities

• Responsible for sourcing and procurement of a broad range of MRO materials, supplies, and services supporting manufacturing operations, with a focus on optimizing cost, quality, and service levels.
• Manage end-to-end requisition processing, including RFQ issuance, quotation analysis, bid evaluation, and supplier selection, ensuring alignment with cost targets and operational requirements.
• Apply strong analytical and strategic thinking to identify sourcing opportunities, develop category strategies, and drive continuous improvement in procurement processes and supplier performance.
• Proactively identify, qualify, and onboard new suppliers while maintaining and enhancing the existing supplier base through structured performance monitoring, KPI tracking, and periodic business reviews.
• Lead and support supplier relationship management activities, ensuring compliance with contractual terms, driving accountability, and fostering long-term partnerships that deliver operational value.
• Coordinate closely with cross-functional stakeholders (operations, planning, quality, and finance) to align purchasing activities with production needs and maintain optimal inventory levels.
• Ensure continuity of supply and high service levels by monitoring supplier cost performance, delivery reliability, lead times, and quality metrics, taking corrective actions where necessary.
• Manage annual spend across assigned commodities and supplier portfolios, contributing to budgeting, forecasting, and cost optimization initiatives.
• Operate with a high degree of autonomy under general guidelines, demonstrating sound judgment, ownership, and a results-driven mindset in day-to-day purchasing decisions.
• Utilize structured problem-solving and data-driven analysis to resolve sourcing and supplier issues, escalating complex or strategic matters to management with well-supported recommendations.
  
  

Requirements

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, EDUCATION, AND ABILITIES:

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience)
• 3 years of purchasing experience, preferably in automotive or manufacturing
• Experience with indirect procurement (MRO, services, capital, tooling)
• Strong negotiation, analytical, vendor management skills, and attention to detail and financial aptitude.
• Proficiency with ERP systems and working knowledge of Microsoft Office module, excel, word, power point.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.