Director of Purchasing
Position Overview
Lead the organization's procurement and purchasing strategy to ensure the timely, cost-effective acquisition of materials, equipment, and services that support manufacturing and distribution operations. Direct the purchasing team, manage key supplier relationships, and drive continuous improvement in sourcing, contract negotiation, and supply chain performance.
Essential Functions/Responsibilities
Develop and implement purchasing strategies, policies, and procedures that support company cost, quality, and delivery objectives.
Lead negotiations for contracts, pricing, and terms with vendors and suppliers to secure favorable terms while maintaining quality standards.
Manage and mentor the purchasing team, setting performance goals and providing guidance on daily procurement activities.
Identify, evaluate, and onboard new suppliers, conducting due diligence on quality, reliability, financial stability, and compliance.
Monitor market trends, commodity pricing, and supply chain risks to anticipate disruptions and adjust sourcing strategies accordingly.
Collaborate with Accounting, Operations, Engineering, Planning, and other departments to understand manufacturing processes, production requirements, and material needs; align procurement strategies and supplier lead times with production schedules and customer delivery commitments.
Establish and track key performance indicators such as cost savings, supplier performance, on-time delivery, working capital improvements, and inventory turnover.
Drive continuous improvement through artificial intelligence and innovation.
Ensure compliance with company policies, industry regulations, and ethical sourcing standards.
Resolve escalated supplier disputes, quality issues, or delivery problems.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or related field required
Seven (7) or more years of progressive experience in purchasing or supply chain management, including several years in a leadership role, with demonstrated experience supporting manufacturing and distribution operations
Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, material requirements, production planning, and supplier lead times, with the ability to anticipate how sourcing decisions and supply constraints impact plant schedules, inventory levels, and on-time customer delivery
Skilled negotiator with fluency in contracts and pricing issues
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Strong analytical, forecasting, and data analysis skills
Proven leadership and cross-functional collaboration abilities
Proficient with ERP/procurement software (such as SAP, Oracle, or Coupa) and Microsoft Office
Willing to travel as required
Preferred Qualifications
College Degree/MBA or advanced degree in a related field
Prior experience in a private equity portfolio company preferred, including exposure in rapid growth environment and transformation initiatives
CPSM, CPM, or CPIM certification a plus
Physical Demands and Work Environment
Must remain in a stationary position (sit/stand) for extended periods.
Must operate a computer for extended periods.
Must have adequate vision for computer work and reviewing documents.
Must be physically capable of lifting, up to 25 lbs., occasionally.
Must be physically capable of occasional bending, squatting, or stooping.
Must be able to hear and speak clearly for effective communication.
Must be physically capable of standing for extended periods when visiting plant or warehouse settings.
Must be physically able to be around electrical and heavy equipment during facility visits.
Must wear required PPE when in applicable areas.
Benefits
401K with matching up to 5%, plus profit sharing plan
Medical, dental and vision plans
Flexible spending and health savings accounts
Paid short- and long-term disability program
Paid life insurance
Paid holidays, sick and vacation time