Job Description
A well-established Buffalo manufacturer is looking for a Senior Purchasing Specialist ready to step into supervision. You’ll lead a small, high-performing team, handle both strategic sourcing and day-to-day buying, and help keep a fast-paced manufacturing operation running smoothly.
What You’ll Do:
- Lead daily team huddles and set purchasing priorities.
- Represent the purchasing function in cross-functional meetings and supplier reviews.
- Monitor key metrics such as supplier performance, lead times, and inventory levels.
- Support, train, and guide team members; handle escalations as needed.
- Personally manage procurement for assigned commodities.
- Source and purchase materials and services aligned with production schedules.
- Evaluate suppliers, negotiate terms, and manage relationships.
- Maintain inventory strategies and safety stock levels.
- Act on MRP/ERP triggers to ensure timely ordering and delivery.
- Work with Engineering, Quality, and Production to resolve supply issues.
- Drive cost reduction initiatives and supply chain improvements.
- Stay informed on material pricing trends and risk factors.
- Report out on purchasing performance and metrics.
What You’ll Bring:
- 5+ years of purchasing/procurement experience in a manufacturing environment.
- Prior leadership or supervisory experience.
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings.
- Strong negotiation and supplier relationship skills.
- Proficiency with Excel (pivot tables, VLOOKUPs, data analysis).
- MRP/ERP experience required; Odoo experience a plus.
- Organized, analytical, and able to manage shifting priorities.