Director of Purchasing

The Purchasing Director will lead the organization’s purchasing and sourcing activities, with responsibility for strategic sourcing, supplier management, cost optimization, contract negotiations, and supply continuity. This individual will develop and execute purchasing strategies aligned with business objectives while strengthening supplier relationships, mitigating risk, and driving continuous improvement across the organization. Responsibilities Develop and implement purchasing strategies aligned with business objectives, operational requirements, and cost targets. Lead strategic sourcing activities, including supplier identification, evaluation, selection, and negotiation. Manage supplier relationships and performance, including cost, quality, delivery, and service levels. Negotiate and manage supplier contracts, pricing agreements, and commercial terms. Identify and execute cost reduction and value improvement opportunities across the supply base. Partner with internal teams to ensure purchasing and supplier readiness for new products, projects, and business initiatives. Develop and strengthen supplier capabilities through performance management and supplier development initiatives. Identify, assess, and mitigate supply chain risks through supplier evaluations, contingency planning, and alternate sourcing strategies. Monitor market conditions, economic trends, and other external factors that may impact purchasing and sourcing strategies. Support mergers, acquisitions, and other business integration initiatives as they relate to purchasing and supplier management. Drive continuous improvement initiatives across purchasing processes, systems, and supplier performance. Lead, develop, and mentor purchasing personnel, including hiring, performance management, coaching, and professional development. Ensure purchasing activities comply with applicable regulations, company policies, and established procedures. Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external suppliers to support business objectives. Establish and monitor purchasing KPIs and provide reporting and recommendations to leadership. Requirements 5+ years of purchasing, procurement, or strategic sourcing experience. Strong experience in strategic sourcing, supplier management, and contract negotiations. Proven leadership experience managing purchasing or supply chain teams. Experience with ERP/MRP systems; SAP experience preferred. Strong analytical, forecasting, financial, and problem-solving skills. Demonstrated experience with cost management, supplier performance, and supply chain optimization. Ability to influence stakeholders and lead cross-functional initiatives. Strong project management, organizational, and prioritization skills. Excellent communication, presentation, negotiation, and relationship-building abilities. Understanding of purchasing compliance, regulatory requirements, and risk management. Proficiency with Microsoft Office and business reporting/analytics tools. #J-18808-Ljbffr