Strategic Buyer, Indirect Materials & Services

Under guidance from the Purchasing Manager, the Strategic Buyer is responsible for sourcing all indirect materials & services, as well as vendor management. This position provides reporting on key performance indicators, engages in cross functional projects and problem solving to drive customer satisfaction and company performance.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS:

Education:

• BS/BA in Supply Chain, Logistics, or Engineering preferred.

Experience:

• A minimum of 2 years’ experience in purchasing, strategic buying, or related emphasis. A similar combination of education and experience will be considered.

JOB DUTIES:

• Analyze supplier spend and material data with the goal of year over year cost reduction.
• Responsible for onboarding and continuous improvement of key vendors.
• Lead negotiations with vendors on new and existing contracts.
• Manage and track vendor performance including supplier delivery, quality, cost, and lead-time.
• Help expedite purchase orders as necessary and ensure appropriate personnel are informed.
• Analyze and manage vendors and material markets for risk mitigation, alternative options, and opportunities.
• Organize, research, and submit RFQ & RFP packages.
• Conduct individual or group negotiations with vendors.
• Work closely with Sales, Quality, Finance, Engineering and Manufacturing sites to implement new vendors, prices, and materials.
• Engage with other LGI divisions to improve purchasing processes, leverage spend and mitigate risk.
• Perform other related duties and participates in special projects as assigned by management.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to travel up to 50%.
• Excellent negotiation skills: proven ability to influence people and accomplish objectives working with and through others.
• Ability to foster, develop, and maintain business relationships.
• Ability to identify opportunities through use of problem-solving techniques, develop solutions and quantify results.
• Firsthand experience with negotiations and the elements associated with negotiating.
• Proven ability to use good judgment and handle confidential information with discretion.
• General knowledge of industrial production processes in an edible or non-edible food processing plant.
• Ability to communicate effectively with management, plant personnel, sales, R&D, and customer service.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to develop and maintain good working relationships.
• Ability to understand business financial information and reports and effectively communicate information.
• Capacity to handle multiple projects or initiatives simultaneously with competing deadlines. Plans and prioritizes work to meet commitments aligned with organizational goals.
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Proven track record of cost reduction and risk mitigation.
• Ability to remain calm and professional at all times.
• High level of attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to work independently and be a self-starter.
• Ability to operate all necessary office equipment such as a computer, mobile phone, fax machine, copy machine, data collection equipment, etc.
• Ability to be proactive, to anticipate and provide alternative solutions to internal customers.
• Ability to work daily and extended hours as necessary.