Purchasing Manager

Import ManagerThe Import Manager is responsible for leading RJ Schinner's import purchasing and inventory planning functions to ensure the effective procurement, forecasting, allocation, and distribution of imported products across the company's network. This position oversees Import Buyers, manages inventory planning activities, develops demands forecasts, coordinates transfer planning for Mixing Centers and hub branches, and serves as a key liaison between Purchasing, Sales, Category Management, Operations, and vendors.The Import Manager ensures optimal inventory levels, supports labor planning through transfer forecasting, manages excess and slow-moving inventory initiatives, and drives continuous improvement in import purchasing processes while maintaining high service levels and inventory productivity.Leadership & Team ManagementSupervise, coach, and develop Import BuyersEstablish performance expectations and provide ongoing training and supportMonitor buyer workload and purchasing activities to ensure timely replenishment and inventory availabilityAssist buyers with purchasing responsibilities during peak workload periods, staffing shortages, or special projectsInventory Planning & ForecastingLead inventory planning efforts for all import product categoriesDevelop and maintain inventory strategies that support service level objectives while minimizing excess inventoryCreate vendor forecasts using sales trends, historical demand, market intelligence, promotional programs, and input from Sales, Category Management, Operations, and other cross-functional teamsReview forecast accuracy and adjust purchasing plans as business conditions changeIdentify inventory risks and develop mitigation strategies for potential shortages or excess inventory situationsMixing Center Inventory ManagementReview and approve Mixing Center sales orders to ensure inventory availability, proper allocation, and supply chain efficiencyCreate and maintain transfer forecasts for Mixing Centers and hub branchesPartner with Operations and Distribution leadership to provide transfer forecasts that support labor planning and warehouse resource allocationMonitor inventory flow between Mixing Centers and branch locations to maximize service levels and inventory turnoverExcess & Slow-Moving Inventory ManagementMaintain and regularly update a comprehensive list of trouble items, obsolete inventory, and excess inventoryPartner with Sales and Category Management to develop action plans for reducing excess inventory exposureMaintain visibility of excess import inventory and communicate opportunities for sales force or category management initiativesMonitor inventory turns and recommend actions to improve inventory productivityVendor ManagementMaintain strong working relationships with import vendors and suppliersCommunicate forecasts and demand plans with vendors to support production scheduling and supply continuityMonitor vendor performance including service levels, fill rates, lead times, and forecast accuracyCollaborate with suppliers to address supply disruptions and inventory productivityCross-Functional CollaborationWork closely with Sales, Operations, Category Management, Purchasing, and Finance teams to align inventory and forecasting strategiesProvide inventory and forecasting insights to support business planning decisionsAssist with new product introductions, inventory transitions, and vendor consolidation initiativesReporting & AnalysisDevelop and maintain inventory planning, forecasting, and performance metricsAnalyze inventory trends, service levels, excess inventory, and purchasing performancePrepare regular reports and recommendations for leadership regarding inventory health and purchasing opportunitiesIdentify process improvements that increase operational efficiency and inventory performanceOther duties as assigned.Qualifications/ExperienceBachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, business Administration, Logistics, Operations Management, or related field preferredEquivalent combination of education and relevant experience may be considered5+ years of purchasing, inventory planning, supply chain, or procurement experience2+ years of leadership or supervisory experience preferredExperience working with imported products, forecasting, and inventory management in a distribution environment preferredExperience managing vendor relationships and purchasing activitiesLocation: On-site | N89W14700 Patrita Drive | Menomonee Falls WI | 53051R.J. Schinner Co., Inc. is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We hire and promote for all positions without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, disability, or veteran status. All terms and conditions of employment are administered on the basis of equality.