Job Summary:
The Sr. Buyer is responsible for executing procurement and purchasing activities to ensure reliable supply, cost efficiency, and compliance with company and regulatory requirements. This role focuses on tactical purchasing, supplier coordination, and inventory support while assisting Strategic Sourcing in supplier management and cost optimization initiatives. The Sr. Buyer works cross-functionally with Quality, Manufacturing, Planning, and Product Development to ensure materials are available to meet production schedules and customer demand. This role requires working knowledge of cGMP requirements, ERP/MRP systems, and supplier communication processes.
Job Duties and Responsibilities:
Procurement & Purchasing Execution
- Execute purchase orders for raw materials, components, and services based on MRP/ERP signals and planning requirementsÂ
- Monitor open orders and ensure on-time delivery; proactively resolve delays or supply disruptionsÂ
- Maintain accurate purchasing data, pricing, and supplier records in ERP systemÂ
- Support inventory management by aligning purchasing with demand forecasts and reorder pointsÂ
- Track and manage order confirmations, lead times, and delivery schedulesÂ
Strategic Procurement
- Lead supplier selection activities by evaluating supplier capabilities, quality, delivery performance, pricing, capacity, and overall business fit to support operational and business objectives.Â
- Lead cost savings initiatives through supplier negotiations, competitive bidding, value analysis, and continuous improvement efforts while maintaining quality and service standards.Â
- Manage supplier performance by monitoring key performance indicators, conducting supplier performance reviews, and driving corrective actions to improve quality, delivery, responsiveness, and overall supplier reliability.Â
- Negotiate pricing, payment terms, delivery schedules, and commercial contract terms within delegated authority to achieve favorable business outcomes and support long-term supplier partnerships.
Supplier Coordination
- Serve as primary point of contact for day-to-day supplier communicationÂ
- Support supplier performance tracking (delivery, quality, responsiveness)Â
- Escalate supplier issues to Strategic Sourcing when necessaryÂ
- Assist with onboarding new suppliers and maintaining required documentationÂ
- Ensure supplier compliance with company standards and regulatory requirementsÂ
Cost & Process Support
- Support cost reduction initiatives through price comparisons, quote analysis, and supplier negotiations (limited scope)Â
- Assist in bid processes, including RFQs and quote evaluationsÂ
- Identify opportunities for improved purchasing efficiency and cost savingsÂ
- Support contract administration and pricing updatesÂ
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Work closely with Planning, Manufacturing, and Quality to ensure material availability and complianceÂ
- Coordinate with Product Development for new product launches and material readinessÂ
- Assist in resolving material shortages, quality issues, and production constraintsÂ
Data & Reporting
- Maintain purchasing metrics (OTIF, supplier performance, cost tracking)Â
- Generate reports to support planning, sourcing, and inventory decisionsÂ
- Assist in demand planning and supply balancing activitiesÂ
Additional Responsibilities
- Support audits, documentation, and compliance initiatives (cGMP, FDA, supplier programs)Â
- Participate in continuous improvement initiatives within supply chain processesÂ
- Perform other duties and special projects as assigned
Job Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, or related field (or equivalent experience)Â
- 3–6 years of purchasing, procurement, or supply chain experienceÂ
- Experience in manufacturing, nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, or similar industry preferredÂ
- Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems requiredÂ
- Experience supporting regulated environments (cGMP/FDA) preferredÂ
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