Job Details

Supervisor, Purchasing

POSITION SUMMARY: The Supervisor, Purchasing is a critical leadership role responsible for overseeing the buying team while maintaining responsibility for a select group of purchasing activities. This position ensures a reliable supply of materials, drives supplier performance, and leads process improvements that support production and operational goals. The Supervisor, Purchasing serves as a key partner to Materials Management, Production, and Supplier Quality, fostering a high-performing team focused on cost, quality, and continuous improvement.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Team Leadership & Development

• Lead, mentor, and supervise the team of Buyers, setting clear goals and expectations.
• Conduct performance evaluations, coaching sessions, and support professional development.
• Participate in hiring, onboarding, and workforce planning decisions for the purchasing team.

Procurement Strategy & Execution

• Maintain responsibility for select commodity or category purchasing, including sourcing, PO placement, and supplier negotiations.
• Ensure timely and accurate procurement aligned with production schedules and company requirements.
• Build and maintain strategic supplier relationships to support cost, quality, and delivery improvements.

Process Improvement & Operational Excellence

• Drive purchasing process improvements, including cost reduction initiatives, lead-time optimization, and supplier performance management.
• Monitor adherence to procurement policies, contract compliance, and ERP data accuracy.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Materials Management, Planning, Production, and Finance to resolve material constraints and mitigate supply risk.

Supplier Management & Performance

• Oversee evaluation of supplier performance, including quality, delivery, and responsiveness.
• Escalate and resolve supplier issues related to performance, capacity, or compliance.
• Support supplier audits and continuous improvement initiatives.

Reporting & Analytics

• Track KPIs such as on-time delivery, cost savings, and inventory accuracy.
• Prepare and deliver procurement performance reports and strategic updates to leadership.
• Ensure accurate ERP transactions, purchase order maintenance, and spend visibility.

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum 3+ years of supervisory experience leading salaried procurement or supply chain professionals.

Minimum 3+ years of purchasing/procurement experience, preferably in manufacturing or industrial environments.

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, or equivalent experience.

Strong negotiation, vendor management, and problem-solving skills.

Proficiency in ERP systems and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).

Excellent communication skills with ability to influence cross-functional teams.

Experience with Lean, 5S, or process improvement methodologies preferred.

PHYSICAL & ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS

The role is primarily based in a manufacturing facility, requiring regular site visits and interaction with production teams. Required to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) and adhere to safety protocols. The role involves extended periods of sitting in front of a computer. Occasional standing or walking may be required during meetings, presentations, or site visits. Work is primarily conducted in an office environment with controlled temperature and lighting, but daily visits to the manufacturing floor are also required.