Buyer

Position Summary

The Buyer/Planner is responsible for the strategic sourcing, procurement, and inventory planning of Maintenance, Repair & Operations (MRO) materials and packaging supplies that support Essex Solutions’ North American manufacturing facilities (Fort Wayne, Franklin IN/TN, Torreon, Simcoe, and JCP).

This role operates with a customer first mindset, treating plant operations as primary customers and ensuring supply continuity, cost discipline, and compliance with procurement policies and financial controls.

Key Responsibilities

• Procurement & Strategic Sourcing
  Lead sourcing activities for MRO and packaging categories, ensuring alignment with corporate strategies and compliance requirements.
  Conduct RFQs, evaluate supplier bids, and negotiate pricing, terms, and service levels to secure competitive advantage and supply reliability.
  Validate requisitions for compliance with MRO Purchasing Policy prior to approval.
  Ensure purchase order accuracy and alignment with approved specifications and all applicable policies.
  Proactively communicate with Corporate Sourcing and Supply Chain regarding risks, gaps, or supplier performance issues.
  Escalate urgent procurement situations requiring expedited approval or action.

• Assuring Cost Savings and Financial Impact
  Deliver weekly cost savings and cost avoidance aligned with departmental goals; maintain accurate documentation in the savings tracker.
  Identify cost-reduction opportunities through data analysis, supplier negotiations, standardization, and material optimization.
  Support corporate sourcing initiatives and cross-functional cost-saving projects.
  Collaborate with internal stakeholders to evaluate and implement cost-saving ideas and process improvements.

• Packaging Planning & Inventory Management
  Manage packaging inventory levels to ensure supply reliability while minimizing excess and avoiding obsolescence.
  Collaborate closely with production planners to anticipate requirements based on schedules, changes, ramp-ups/downs, and shutdowns.
  Establish and maintain min/max levels or safety stock based on demand patterns, lead times, and operational variability.
  Support implementation of new packaging solutions, materials, and suppliers.

• Systems, Compliance & Process Discipline
  Ensure all procurement activities comply with corporate strategies, policies, and KSOX requirements.
  Maintain complete and accurate documentation for new supplier setup per Sourcing Work Instructions.
  Ensure purchase order pricing accuracy and maintain up-to-date due dates in iPurchase.
  Close purchase orders for materials not being delivered to maintain system accuracy and audit readiness.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration
  Collaborate with fellow buyers on projects, coverage, best practices, and continuous improvement initiatives.
  Share tools, insights, and process enhancements to strengthen team performance and consistency across sites.

Skills & Competencies

• Analytical & Technical
  Strong analytical and data-driven decision-making.
  ERP/ MRP proficiency (SAP, Oracle, or similar).
  Market awareness and understanding of cost drivers.
  Ability to interpret demand patterns, lead times, and inventory requirements.

• Behavioral & Leadership
  Disciplined, organized, and detail-oriented.
  Strategic and critical thinking.
  High integrity, honesty, and transparency.
  Continuous improvement mindset.
  Effective teamwork and collaboration across sites.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED equivalent or higher, bachelor’s degree on related field preferred.

• 3–5 years of experience in procurement, and planning within a manufacturing environment.

• Experience in MRO procurement and packaging materials within a manufacturing environment.

• Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Office (Excel, Power BI a plus).

• Strong negotiation, analytical, and vendor management skills.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.