Category Buyer

Responsibilities

• Compile and summarize raw material demands across all North America Infrastructure Operations facilities
• Request quotes from suppliers if no current contract for commodity
• Place purchase orders timely to meet demand
• Agregate demand for category items and review regularly with Global Commodity Manager and Materials teams
• Maintain system reports across multiple sites concerning purchase orders and complete due diligence to resolve
• Follow supplier contracts and agreements as set by Global Commodity Management Team
• Collaborate with suppliers to solve issues and escalate as needed
• Monitor status reports and hold regular status report meetings with suppliers and internal stakeholders at multiple sites
• Identify and lead process improvement activities to optimize resource utilization for category, engaging stakeholders at facilities to support change
• Achieve outstanding internal customer satisfaction and maintain relationships between the supply base and Valmont Industries, Inc
• Manage claim for rejected material with supplier
• Manage invoicing discrepancies
• Aid Accounts Payable in timely credit/debit reconciliation
• Participate in scorecards and surveys relating to suppliers
• Collaborate with Global Commodity Managers on supplier development and management
• Review purchasing standard work procedures for improvements to increase customer satisfaction and/or reduce cost
• Act as a backup for other central buyers

Requirements

• Preferred Bachelors degree with 3+ years of experience or Associates degree with 5+ years relevant experience or 7+ years of relevant experience
• Six months of experience in a production/manufacturing environment or a material control role
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment, building relationships with all levels of employees
• Judgment and decision-making skills while comparing relative cost and benefit potential
• A strong working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Outlook
• Previous experience in sales, operations, operations planning, master scheduling, production planning, inventory control or production control within an MRP/ERP environment
• Knowledge of customer service functions and shipping procedures
• APICS (C.P.I.M.), CSCP, or Certified Purchasing Manager or Certified Professional in Inventory Management Certification