Under limited supervision, the Sr Associate Buyer is responsible for sourcing suppliers, negotiating pricing, and managing the terms and conditions for Purchase Orders, contracts, and blanket orders for various commodities, supplies, and services.
Responsibilities: Source potential suppliers and contractors for goods and services, negotiating terms and placing MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Operations) orders with vendors.
Process and evaluate purchase requisitions for contract services, capital equipment, inventory materials, and RO's, in adherence to established company policies and procedures.
Generate and manage purchase contracts, blanket orders, and ensure purchasing record database integrity (JDE System).
Assist in the design and implementation of new systems such as JDE releases, Corporate Purchasing Card programs, Minority Supplier Program, EDI, and electronic requisitioning.
Conduct special projects to identify cost-saving opportunities and provide insights on procurement efficiencies.
Participate in the design, implementation, and monitoring of supplier partnership programs.
Develop and propose new practices and procedures to improve procurement operations.
Collaborate with departments such as Quality, Manufacturing, and Engineering to define specifications for new equipment and goods.
Troubleshoot and creatively solve procurement-related challenges within standard business and manufacturing practices.
Maintain purchasing documentation according to cGMP (Current Good Manufacturing Practices) standards.
Serve as a backup for the MRO Category Manager when required.
Assist with supplier audits and visits, providing feedback and recommendations to the audit team.
Conduct periodic audits of purchasing contracts and records.
Resolve discrepancies related to purchase orders, working closely with Receiving and Finance teams.
Monitor and coordinate the return of goods as needed.
Expedite the timely processing and delivery of Purchase Orders.
Attend departmental meetings and collaborate with teams such as Operations/Production, Procurement Staff, and Logistics as necessary.
Skills: Fully bilingual (both oral and written communication skills).
Strong interpersonal skills for building relationships and managing vendor communications.
Proficiency in computer applications, including MS Office and SAP.
Good organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
Ability to work independently while ensuring compliance with procurement standards and practices.
Requirements Qualifications: High School/GED with 4 years of directly related work experience, OR Associate's Degree with 2 years of directly related work experience, OR Bachelor's Degree with 6 months of directly related work experience, OR Master's Degree Preferred Qualifications: Experience in the management of Requisitions PO conversion via SAP Reports.
Strong proficiency with SAP and supplier communication management.
Ability to manage supplier escalation processes regarding PO delivery delays, past-due orders, PO quantity discrepancies, missing documents (COA/packing list), and closing balances.
Exceptional communication and negotiation skills.
Proven experience participating in cross-functional projects.
Familiarity with Smartsheet or other reporting tools for tracking and metrics.