Procurement Category Buyer

Job Description

Job Description

The Procurement Category Buyer coordinates the replenishment of commodity forest products and will act as an inventory manager for the hardwood plywood category at Atlantic Plywood. A successful candidate will be able to understand the variable nature of commodity markets and will be empowered to make predictive decisions in regulating the organization’s inventory position in the applicable categories. You will be responsible for researching suppliers, negotiating contracts, and managing vendor relationships to optimize value and minimize costs. Your attention to detail, strategic thinking, and excellent communication skills will contribute to the efficiency and success of our procurement process.

Responsibilities:

• Supplier Research and Selection:
  • Identify potential suppliers through market research, referrals, and networking.
  • Evaluate suppliers based on factors such as price, quality, reliability, and service.
  • Maintain a database of approved suppliers and continuously assess their performance.
• Negotiation and Contract Management:
  • Negotiate pricing, terms, and contracts with suppliers to ensure favorable terms for the organization.
  • Collaborate with legal and finance teams to review and finalize contracts.
  • Monitor contract performance and address any issues or discrepancies in a timely manner.
• Purchase Order Processing:
  • Generate purchase orders based on approved requisitions and procurement requests.
  • Ensure accuracy and completeness of purchase orders, including specifications, quantities, and delivery timelines.
  • Coordinate with internal departments such as inventory management and accounting to facilitate smooth order processing and payment.
• Inventory Management:
  • Work closely with inventory control teams to maintain optimal stock levels and minimize excess inventory or stockouts.
  • Monitor inventory levels and demand trends to anticipate future procurement needs.
  • Implement strategies to optimize inventory turnover and reduce carrying costs.
• Vendor Relationship Management:
  • Cultivate strong relationships with key suppliers and vendors to foster collaboration and partnership.
  • Address supplier concerns and resolve disputes or issues in a professional manner.
  • Conduct regular supplier performance reviews and provide feedback for continuous improvement.
• Cost Analysis and Budgeting:
  • Analyze pricing trends, market conditions, and cost-saving opportunities to optimize procurement decisions.
  • Develop and maintain budgets for procurement activities and ensure adherence to financial guidelines and targets.
  • Implement cost-saving initiatives such as bulk purchasing, supplier consolidation, or alternative sourcing strategies.
• Compliance and Risk Management:
  • Ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and company policies governing procurement activities.
  • Assess and mitigate risks associated with supplier relationships, supply chain disruptions, or quality issues.
  • Stay informed about industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies in procurement and supply chain management.
• Other duties that may arise in the normal course of business.

Qualifications and Skills:

• A minimum of 3 years of procurement/supply chain in a distribution environment
• Building material industry purchasing experience or knowledge of industry suppliers preferred
• Bachelor's degree in business administration, supply chain management, or a related field.
• Proven experience as a purchasing agent, buyer, or procurement specialist, preferably in a similar industry or environment.
• Strong negotiation skills and building and maintaining effective relationships with suppliers and vendors.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a keen attention to detail.
• Proficiency in procurement software, ERP systems, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Solid understanding of supply chain management principles, logistics, and inventory control.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to influence and persuade stakeholders at all levels.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Physical Requirements/Environment:

• Office environment