Purchasing Manager

Title: Purchasing Manager
Compensation: $60,000 - $80,000 per year
Location: Forest Lake, MN

About The Job:
Lakeside HR Group has been engaged by our client to recruit for a Purchasing Manager to join their team. Our client is a well-established manufacturer known for producing high-quality specialty vehicles and supporting a collaborative, growth-oriented work environment.
This role leads purchasing, materials, and inventory management activities to support production and overall business growth. The Purchasing Manager will oversee supplier relationships, drive cost savings, ensure inventory accuracy, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives across the organization.

Key Responsibilities:
• Manage procurement activities including requisitions, purchase orders, price negotiations, and supplier evaluation
• Maintain and strengthen supplier relationships while identifying new sourcing opportunities
• Oversee inventory accuracy, materials data integrity, and MRO procurement
• Support daily order fulfillment and ensure material availability for production
• Drive cost-reduction and continuous improvement initiatives
• Resolve vendor, supplier, and delivery issues efficiently
• Support corporate purchasing initiatives such as supplier agreements and standardization
• Implement commodity strategies and ensure timely material delivery
• Identify capacity constraints, bottlenecks, and inventory risks
• Participate in physical inventory planning and execution
• Monitor market trends and pricing opportunities

Required Skills:
• Bachelor's degree in Business, Purchasing, Accounting, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• Minimum 5 years of purchasing or materials management experience
• Strong knowledge of purchasing principles, inventory management, and cost analysis
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and ERP systems (NetSuite preferred)
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication skills with ability to collaborate cross-functionally
• Ability to work onsite in Forest Lake, MN
Preferred:
• CPM or APP certification
• Experience in manufacturing or production environments
• Automotive industry experience

Benefits:
• 401(k)
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Health savings account (HSA)
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Employee discount
• Referral program

About Lakeside HR Group:
At Lakeside HR Group, we understand that finding the right job is essential for your career success. We are a boutique-style human resources consulting and recruiting firm dedicated to providing personalized, tailored solutions. When you partner with us, you are not just getting a recruiter; you are getting the entire Lakeside team working together to support your career goals.
Partner with us at Lakeside HR Group, where we are more than just a recruiting firm; we are your partners in achieving your career aspirations.