The Strategic Buyer is responsible for developing and implementing new and existing sourcing and procurement strategies, managing supplier relationships in assigned categories, and balancing inventory levels with demand to meet production schedules. The role partners cross-functionally with Supply Chain, Operations, Quality, Engineering/Product Development, and Finance to improve supplier performance, optimize inventory, support new product introductions and product changes, and drive continuous improvement across procurement and supply planning processes.
Essential Functions
Develop and implement sourcing and procurement strategies for assigned categories that balance cost, quality, lead time, availability, and overall business value.
Develop, manage, and measure key supplier relationships, including supplier performance, communication cadence, issue resolution, and ongoing improvement opportunities.
Identify and qualify new supplier opportunities; lead pricing, terms, contract, and commercial negotiations to support business goals and supply continuity.
Analyzes global demand trends to incorporate into forecasting, inventory planning, and supply chain demand.
Identify and develop process improvements within the supply chain by continuously improving techniques, methods, and approaches to procurement strategies, demand forecasting, and inventory planning.
Manages inventory levels for phase-in/phase-out opportunities for assigned product categories.
Participate in new product development process by supporting sourcing, supplier readiness, component availability, cost visibility, and material planning requirements.
Actively manage product changes into production plans, coordinating timing, inventory usage, and supplier updates.
Coordinates with inventory buyers and supply chain leaders to identify and reconcile constraints, supply shortages, and other issues impacting customer fulfillment. (e.g., parts shortages, back orders).
Daily approval of planned PO’s for assigned product categories.
Works closely with Quality Assurance to ensure suppliers' quality expectations are met or exceeded standards, leads supplier performance appraisals.
Collaborates with internal stakeholders to develop, maintain, and improve operational SOPs and procurement processes.
Other duties as assigned.
Supervisory Responsibilities
The position will not have direct reports.
Competencies/Qualifications
Strong communication skills (written & verbal) and ability to interact with all levels of the organization.
Excellent analytical & quantitative skills.
Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal direction and in a collaborative team setting.
Exceptional organizational skills to handle multiple competing priorities.
Detail-oriented and accurate.
Strong sense of urgency and ability to influence different business partners across multiple functions.
Work Environment
While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly works in a general office environment where typical levels of noise, dust, and activity can be expected. The noise level in this work environment is usually moderate. The employee may occasionally work in or pass through the manufacturing environment where typical levels of noise, dust, and activity can be expected. The noise level in this work environment is usually loud.
Physical Demands
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, talk, or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand, walk, use hands to finger, handle, or feel, and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.
Travel Required
Travel is not required.
Required Education and Experience
Must be at least 18 years of age.
Bachelor’s degree in business, supply chain management, operations, procurement, logistics, engineering, or a related field required; equivalent combination of education and relevant experience may be considered.
Minimum of 2 years of supply chain experience in procurement, sourcing, inventory management, planning, logistics, or a similar function.
Experience managing critical supplier relationships in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Experience with supply chain planning, ERP/MRP, or procurement systems.
Expertise with Microsoft Excel is required; ability to analyze data, identify trends, and translate findings into practical actions.
Competitive compensation and benefits include medical/dental/vision insurance, 401(k) with employer contribution, PTO, paid Holidays, and an on-site fitness center.
Please note that this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee for this job. Duties, obligations, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.