Buyer - Resins. at NPA Knoxville, Tennessee

Senior Buyer Plastics And Chemicals

We are seeking a highly skilled and strategic Senior Buyer to manage the procurement of raw materials, indirect/non-production materials, MRO, services, and capital equipment. This role is critical to ensuring cost-effective sourcing, continuity of supply, and alignment with our company’s operational and business objectives.

The ideal candidate will bring strong experience in the plastics industry, with knowledge of resins, TiO, carbon black, and chemical additives. You will work in a collaborative environment, engaging cross-functionally with Procurement, Supply Chain, Regulatory, Quality, Sales, Technical Services, and Operations to drive supplier performance, cost savings, and supply chain efficiency.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage purchasing requirements for our client's facilities in the USA and Canada.
• Maintain detailed purchase records and vendor data including specifications, pricing history, performance, and contracts.
• Conduct market analysis to identify trends, cost drivers, and technology shifts within the supply base.
• Lead supplier selection, quotation processes, total cost of ownership analysis, and contract negotiations.
• Build and maintain strong supplier relationships through visits, audits, and performance evaluations.
• Develop commodity strategies to maximize purchasing leverage, continuity of supply, and cost efficiency.
• Support material budget planning, cost forecasting, and key performance initiatives.
• Lead supplier negotiations, cost reduction workshops, and corrective action processes.
• Partner with cross-functional teams to mitigate supply risk and drive supplier performance improvements.

Qualifications:

• Strong industry knowledge in plastics and chemicals procurement.
• Expertise in supplier relationship management and strategic sourcing.
• In-depth understanding of global supply chain success factors.
• Strong analytical, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to interpret blueprints and engineering documents.
• Advanced computer proficiency (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Power BI).
• Experience with Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central and Power BI strongly preferred.
• Ability to manage multiple projects independently.
• Knowledge of supply market trends, industry associations, and contract law as it relates to purchasing.
• Willingness and ability to travel as needed.

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Logistics, Chemistry, or a related field (preferred).
• 5+ years of procurement experience; plastics or chemical industry background strongly preferred.

Why is This a Great Opportunity:

You will play a key role in shaping procurement strategies and driving supply chain excellence across North America. This is a great opportunity for a motivated professional to apply their expertise in a fast-paced, collaborative, and innovative environment.