Purchasing Lead

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Purchasing Lead whose primary focus will be centered around people development and process improvement. This person will also be responsible for overseeing the procurement of new products, international sourcing, maintaining inventory levels in alignment with company goals, establishing long term successful vendor relationships, minimizing costs while maximizing quality and delivery times. They will use metrics and analytics to determine areas of weakness and strengths in purchasing, make recommendations for improvements and follow through on implementation. This is a remote role, but only candidates who can work EST. and CST. hours will be considered. The role requires quarterly travel for team collaboration.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, coach, and develop a team of 3-4 Buyers, providing guidance, training, and performance feedback.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to resolve issues, support business objectives, and drive process improvements.
• Develop and execute inventory strategies throughout the product lifecycle to optimize service levels and working capital.
• Manage supplier relationships and performance, including quality, compliance, service, cost, and inventory metrics.
• Utilize forecasting and planning tools, including GAINS, to maintain appropriate inventory levels and minimize overstock and stockouts.
• Lead sourcing initiatives, supplier negotiations, and cost-reduction opportunities.
• Drive freight optimization and other supply chain efficiency initiatives.
• Oversee the resolution of supplier returns, product quality concerns, and purchasing discrepancies.
• Support new product sourcing, supplier onboarding, and product setup activities.
• Lead strategic projects and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance purchasing and inventory performance.
• Ensure compliance with company policies and the Applied Quality Management System supporting ISO 9001:2015 certification.
• Maintain accurate supplier, pricing, and product master data while supporting invoice and receiving discrepancy resolution as needed.
• Serve as an escalation point and subject matter expert for purchasing, inventory, and supplier-related matters.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Physical Requirements

• Communicate information and ideas so others will understand.
• Observe details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
• Remain in a stationary position for extended periods of time.
• Operate a computer and other office productivity machinery, such as a keyboard, mouse, telephone.
• Walk through manufacturing, warehouse, and production areas.

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma or state‑recognized equivalent (such as a GED).
• 5+ years of purchasing experience.
• 1+ years of experience leading, coaching, or managing a team in a purchasing, supply chain, or related environment.
• Be able to work EST. or CST. hours.
• Located in the United States.
• Valid driver's license.
• Must be able to travel once a quarter for up to a week.
• Legally authorized to work in the United States.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate's degree or higher preferred.
• Passion for solving problems.
• Thorough knowledge of inventory and supply chain management.
• Well organized, process and data driven, logical, and resolution oriented.
• Demonstrated excellence in verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to build and manage relationships and demonstrate resilience and ability to handle difficult situations with a positive "can do" attitude.
• Strong computer skills with ability to learn new systems quickly and efficiently, proficient keyboard abilities, MS Office, Windows O/S, and MRP/ERP systems.
• Strong leadership skills and enjoy coaching, mentoring, and developing others.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental and Vision Benefits
• 401k Match
• Flexible and Team-Oriented work environment
• Generous PTO policy
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee Assistance Program
• Career and talent development opportunities as well as opportunities for personal growth

Pay

The anticipated base compensation range for this position is $80,000 - $105,000 annually.