Position Summary:

This senior associate role combines the responsibilities of sourcing goods, services, and materials, managing vendor relationships, and ensuring a smooth flow of materials to support uninterrupted production. The ideal candidate will have expertise in procurement, inventory management, and implementing lean practices within the supply chain to enhance cost efficiency, quality, and on-time delivery.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute purchasing strategies to ensure timely and cost-effective procurement of materials, equipment, and services.
• Forecast demand and collaborate with internal teams to track customer needs and production goals.
• Manage purchase orders, ensuring materials meet specifications and cost standards.
• Coordinate with suppliers to ensure a consistent supply of materials and avoid production delays.
• Implement lean principles and inventory systems (Kanban, pull systems, JIT delivery, consignment inventory) to optimize material flow and reduce waste.
• Negotiate contracts, delivery schedules, and terms with suppliers.
• Develop strong vendor relationships and monitor supplier performance to ensure compliance with quality standards, reduce purchase price variances, and ensure timely deliveries.
• Source new suppliers and develop cost-effective procurement strategies.
• Manage inventory levels and collaborate with production teams to increase inventory turns and avoid excess stock.
• Oversee inventory management systems, cycle counts, and material job closeouts.
• Monitor and analyze KPIs, such as inventory turns, delivery rates, and vendor performance, and implement corrective actions to drive continuous improvement.
• Prepare reports on performance, cost estimates, and material usage.
• Assist in other areas as needed.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Inventory Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in purchasing, materials planning, or supply chain management, with manufacturing experience preferred.
• At least 2 years of experience in a supervisory or management role.
• Strong negotiation skills and a proven track record of cost savings.
• Proficiency in ERP systems, material management systems, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Excellent organizational, time-management, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.