BUYER/PURCHASING AGENT
About the role
The Purchasing Agent / Buyer is responsible for ensuring uninterrupted material flow to support Riverside's manufacturing operations. This individual owns assigned suppliers and purchased components, driving supplier performance in cost, quality, delivery, and responsiveness. The ideal candidate is highly motivated, results-driven, and possesses a strong sense of urgency in resolving issues and preventing disruptions before they impact production. Positions available in both Fort Wayne, IN and Chesterfield, MI. This position is primarily office-based, supporting procurement activities through ERP/MRP systems and regular collaboration with Planning, Production, Engineering, and Quality. Occasional travel to supplier sites may be required to support sourcing, quality, or supplier development activities.
Responsibilities
Supplier & Purchase Order Ownership: Take full ownership of assigned suppliers, purchased materials, and purchase orders from placement through receipt; negotiate pricing, lead times, terms, and service agreements to achieve cost savings and improve supplier performance; hold suppliers accountable for delivery commitments, quality requirements, corrective actions, and responsiveness.
Supply Chain Risk Management: Proactively identify and resolve material shortages, late deliveries, quality concerns, and supply chain disruptions to protect production schedules; develop and maintain strong supplier relationships while continuously evaluating supplier capabilities, risks, and alternative sourcing opportunities; drive continuous improvement initiatives with suppliers to improve cost, quality, delivery, and overall operational performance.
Procurement Operations: Review purchasing requirements and place orders in a timely manner to support production demands and inventory objectives; maintain accurate purchasing records and effectively utilize ERP/MRP systems to manage procurement activities.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaborate closely with Planning, Production, Engineering, Quality, and Operations to ensure material availability and support business objectives; support new product introductions, engineering changes, and material transitions by sourcing components and managing supplier implementation activities.