Supply Chain Buyer Planner

Responsibilities

• Create and manage purchase orders that align with forecasted demand, production requirements, and inventory objectives.
• Track supplier commitments and follow up on delivery timing, product quality, and cost performance to reduce operational risk.
• Evaluate material demand, stock positions, and lead time trends to minimize shortages while avoiding unnecessary excess.
• Take prompt action on urgent material issues by expediting orders and coordinating solutions with suppliers and internal teams.
• Review system-generated planning exceptions and purchasing signals, then determine the appropriate next steps to protect supply continuity.
• Maintain accurate purchasing records, part data, and related planning information within the company’s ERP environment.
• Communicate with suppliers regarding order acknowledgements, schedule updates, quantity changes, and other order-related adjustments.
• Assist with new item launches, engineering updates, and supplier onboarding activities that affect purchased materials.
• Partner with Accounts Payable and suppliers to investigate and resolve invoice and order discrepancies.
• Contribute to cost savings, supplier improvement efforts, and adherence to company purchasing policies and ethical procurement standards.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, business, operations, or a related discipline, or equivalent practical experience.
• At least 5 years of purchasing or supply chain experience, including work in a manufacturing environment.
• Hands-on experience using SAP or a comparable ERP system for purchasing and planning activities.
• Solid understanding of material requirements planning, bill of materials structures, and production planning principles.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities with attention to detail.
• Effective communication skills for working across internal departments and with external suppliers.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and data-driven decision-making in a supply chain setting.

Qualifications

• Preferred qualifications include direct material buying experience and certifications such as APICS, PMP, or other relevant supply chain credentials.