Senior Buyer

Description

• Collaborate with Operations, Quality, Engineering, Planning, Logistics, and global sites to resolve quality concerns, supply disruptions, PPV concerns, and lead-time issues.
• Apply LEAN principles to optimize Kanban performance, delivery adherence, inventory turns, and workflow efficiency.
• Review demand plans and inventory positions and drive actions to maintain optimal stock levels while ensuring global on-time delivery.
• Develop and refine purchasing systems, processes, and policies in partnership with the Director of Operations
• Participate in the evaluation, preparation, and reporting of monthly shipments, PPV performance, inventory turns, supplier scorecards, and other key supply chain metrics.
• Monitor commodity markets, pricing trends, supply risks, and capacity constraints, providing recommendations and early-warning insights to leadership.
• Develop, manage, and strengthen supplier and vendor relationships, including performance audits, corrective actions, QBRs, and long-term improvement plans.
• Provide coaching, support, and subject-matter guidance to Buyers and cross-functional teammates as required.
• Support ISO and audit readiness requirements, including documentation accuracy and process control.
• Resolve invoice discrepancies, PO claims, and contract questions, escalating when needed.
• Lead cost-reduction initiatives, supplier consolidation projects, and make/buy analyses to support productivity, PPV reduction, and operational excellence.
• Prepare, issue, and authorize purchase orders for production materials; ensure compliance with sourcing strategy, pricing accuracy, and contract terms.
• Identify, evaluate, and qualify new suppliers; lead onboarding, first-article requirements, and capability assessments.
• Minimize freight costs, support service-level objectives, and reduce expedites.
• Lead and coordinate purchasing-related activities for APP globally, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and material planning requirements.
• Participate and/or lead Project Teams and Cross-Functional Teams as required.

Requirements

• Ability to lead supplier negotiations, influence outcomes, and support long-term sourcing strategy.
• Strong working knowledge of ERP systems and Microsoft Office.
• Knowledge of LEAN Manufacturing practices preferred.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and supplier-management skills.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data, identify trends, and make informed recommendations.
• APICS/CPIM, CSCP, NAPM, or formal Negotiations certifications preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree (AND) 5 or more years of purchasing experience in a manufacturing environment, with proven experience managing suppliers and high-value spend, (OR) an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Ability to partner with all levels of management and mentor less experienced Buyer

Benefits

• Cash Balance Pension Plan
• 401k with Company Match
• Personal Days
• Volunteer Time
• Wellness Programs
• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
• Parental Leave
• Education Reimbursement

Training + Development

Interview process

Visa Sponsorship

Security clearance