Purchasing Manager

Delano, MN, US

ABOUT LANDSCAPE STRUCTURES

Landscape Structures Inc. has been the leading manufacturer of commercial playground equipment in the world for more than 50 years. Our employee-owned company designs community and school playgrounds that encourage kids of all ages and abilities to learn persistence, leadership, competition, bravery, support, and empathy through play. Landscape Structures pushes the limits—of design, inclusion, and play—to help kids realize there is no limit to what they can do today and in the future. For a better tomorrow, we play today.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Purchasing Manager is responsible for the day-to-day management of LSI’s purchasing team, including leadership and development of a small group of buyers, execution of purchasing activities across a general commodity portfolio, and ownership of team performance metrics. This role reports to the VP of Supply Chain and operates within LSI’s Execution Model framework of Safety, Quality, Cost, Delivery, Environment, and Morale.

LSI CORE VALUES

These values are more than just words on the wall. They guide our decisions and how we support one another.

Innovation

• Encourages creativity and innovation.

• Seeks new knowledge and solicits different perspectives.

• Works comfortably in situations without clear boundaries.

• Embraces change and promotes acceptance of change in others.

Commitment and Passion

• Communicates the department vision, strategic direction and purpose.

• Rallies support behind the vision; inspires and motivates others to share the vision and works towards its achievement.

• Demonstrates an authentic dedication to their employees and the contributions each of them make.

Integrity

• Sets high standards for individuals and teams and communicates their achievements.

• Leads by example – walks the talk during even difficult times. “Acts” each day congruent with what is “said” to be important.

• Generates trust by following through, keeping promises, and respecting individuals.

Teams and Relationships

• Acts as a coach and facilitator to individuals and teams.

• Establishes positive working relationships throughout the organization.

• Sets clear expectations for individuals and groups; monitors as appropriate to meet business objectives.

• Develops strategies to influence others toward department and/or company goals.

DUTIES AND RESPONSABILITIES

Team Management

• Recruit, manage, develop, and evaluate a team of a small group of buyers

• Establish clear performance expectations; conduct regular one-on-one meetings and formal performance reviews

• Create individual development plans for each direct report on an annual basis

• Coach buyers on supplier negotiation, purchasing judgment, and cross-functional communication

• Hold the team accountable for timely follow-up and proactive escalation of supply issues

Purchasing Operations

• Direct the full purchase order cycle: PO placement, supplier follow-up, delivery confirmation, and exception management

• Manage supplier relationships through clear expectations, direct feedback, and consistent follow-through

• Partner with operations, quality, and planning to align purchasing decisions with production requirements

• Identify and resolve gaps in process, systems, and supplier performance

Performance and Reporting

• Own and maintain the team’s purchasing scorecard, including on-time delivery, PO accuracy, cost savings, and supplier performance ratings

• Report purchasing performance to the VP of Supply Chain on a regular cadence with clear data and recommendations

• Maintain cost discipline while protecting quality and delivery commitments

• Drive continuous improvement in purchasing processes and supplier performance

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• 5 or more years of experience in purchasing, procurement, or supply chain management

• Minimum 2 years of direct team leadership experience

• Demonstrated ability to build and sustain a culture of accountability within a buying team

• Experience managing a diverse commodity portfolio across a manufacturing or industrial environment

• Proficiency with ERP systems and purchasing data reporting

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, Business, or a related field

• APICS CPIM or CPSM certification

• Experience in plastics, industrial materials, or similar manufacturing environment

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Primary duties are performed seated at a desk or workstation

• Frequent use of computers, keyboards, and mouse

• Repetitive hand and finger movements for typing and using a computer mouse.

The starting target salary range is $120,000 - $140,000, depending upon qualifications and experience. The posted pay range reflects the expected compensation for a fully qualified candidate. Starting pay may be above or below this range based on job-related factors such as skills, experience, qualifications, and training needs.

In addition to base salary, the compensation package also includes eligibility for a profit-sharing opportunity. Additionally, for eligible full-time employees, we offer a competitive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life, and disability benefits; vacation and paid holidays; 401(k) retirement plan and employee stock ownership plan.

Employment is contingent upon the satisfactory completion of a background screening, conducted in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.

Landscape Structures is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including Protected Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities.

Landscape Structures participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States. See more here.