Export Procurement Manager - Gulf South - Hattiesburg, MS
About the role
The Export Procurement Manager is responsible for securing and managing timber supply to support Gulf South export market goals. This role develops sourcing strategies, builds strong supplier relationships, and ensures a safe, reliable, and cost-competitive fiber supply chain. Working closely with Marketing, Planning, Timberlands Operations, Logistics, and Export Yard Operations, the successful candidate will help deliver export volume commitments, optimize margins, and support long-term business growth. This is an on-site position based in Hattiesburg, Mississippi.
Responsibilities
- Develop and execute procurement strategies that support export business objectives and regional growth
- Secure timber supply from external suppliers to meet export volume commitments
- Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, logging contractors, consultants, and industry stakeholders
- Negotiate pricing, volume commitments, product specifications, and supply agreements
- Monitor market conditions, supply availability, and delivered costs to identify opportunities and risks
- Create daily, weekly, and monthly procurement plans aligned with vessel schedules and customer commitments
- Partner with logistics and export yard operations teams to maintain consistent wood flow and supply chain performance
- Identify, qualify, and onboard new suppliers to expand sourcing capacity and reduce supply risk
- Manage inventory positions and recommend procurement adjustments to maintain operational continuity
- Promote a strong safety culture and ensure compliance with procurement policies, environmental standards, and regulatory requirements
- Contribute to regional strategic planning and execution of business initiatives
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Forestry or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience (minimum High School/GED required)
- Experience in timber procurement, wood procurement, forest products, supply chain management, marketing, or a related field
- Proven ability to negotiate contracts and manage supplier relationships
- Strong analytical and financial skills with the ability to evaluate market trends and procurement opportunities
- Demonstrated success managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced operational environment
- Excellent communication, relationship-building, and negotiation skills
- Commitment to safety, environmental stewardship, and continuous improvement
- Ability to collaborate effectively across organizational and functional boundaries
- Strong leadership skills with a passion for developing people and creating value
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and business systems used to support procurement and supply chain operations
- Ability and willingness to reside within the Hattiesburg, Mississippi operating area
Pay
Target salary range: $69,396 – $104,095 per year, based on skills, qualifications, and experience. Eligible for annual merit-increase program. Annual Incentive Program offers a cash bonus targeting 5% of base pay, with potential plan funding ranging from zero to two times that target.