Purchasing Manager

About the role

We are seeking a strategic and hands-on Purchasing Manager to lead procurement activities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. In this role, you will manage a team owning supplier relationships, negotiate contracts, optimize inventory levels, and ensure quality materials are available when needed. Your work will directly support operational efficiency, value creation, supplier performance, and the company’s long-term profitable growth.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute purchasing strategies aligned with production schedules, business goals, and cost-saving objectives.
• Manage supplier sourcing, negotiations, contracts, performance reviews, and ongoing relationship development.
• Oversee purchase order preparation and processing to ensure accuracy, compliance, and timely delivery.
• Partner with supply chain, production, maintenance, and engineering teams to forecast material needs and maintain optimal stock levels.
• Identify and implement procurement process improvements that create value, improve efficiency, and minimize supply disruptions.
• Monitor supplier quality, delivery, and pricing performance, resolving issues quickly and effectively.
• Ensure purchasing activities comply with internal controls, policies, and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Lead, coach, and support the purchasing team to strengthen performance, accountability, and professional growth.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Engineering, Supply Chain Management, Business, or equivalent.
• 5+ years of experience in a manufacturing or laboratory environment.
• 3+ years of experience in category spend management.
• Strong understanding of materials management, inventory control, and purchase order processes, and vendor relations.
• Proficiency with SAP ERP software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong communication, problem-solving, organizational, and leadership skills.

Qualifications

• Experience in a similar role preferred.
• Knowledge of industry best practices and trends.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong analytical and decision-making skills.

Skills

• Supplier Relationship Management
• Procurement Strategy Development
• Inventory Optimization
• Vendor Negotiation
• Process Improvement
• Quality Control

Benefits

Competitive Pay & Bonuses
Comprehensive Health & Life Insurance (starting on day one! )
401K with Company Contribution
Paid Parental Leave & PTO
Tuition Reimbursement for career growth
Fitness Membership Subsidy

Pay

TBD

Schedule

TBD

Shepherd Material Science Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer.