Buyer - Materials Management

KI Buyer Position

At KI, we believe knowing our customers helps us serve them better. We listen. We observe. We understand that each customer has unique needs. So, we pride ourselves on helping our customers make smart furniture decisions by offering expert advice, design options and personalized solutions. Since 1941, we've positioned KI as the furniture company that best understands the furniture industry and is committed to providing customers with the smart solutions. By targeting specific markets with solutions for business furniture, university furniture, educational furniture, healthcare furniture and government furniture, we can quickly respond to our customers' unique needs – including the choice to procure furniture according to what fits their ordering and fulfillment process. That's why we say we offer far more than furniture. We're Furnishing Knowledge.

Position Overview

KI is looking for a Buyer to join our Materials Management team at our Green Bay headquarters. This position is responsible for sourcing and purchasing materials and components to support manufacturing operations. This role is also responsible for continuous supplier improvement.

Responsibilities

Purchasing & Inventory Control (60%)

• Analyze inventory levels for assigned items to determine which items and quantities need to be purchased.
• Place purchase orders with suppliers for materials and components used in the production process.
• Work with suppliers on delivery date changes, quantity changes and cancellations.
• Update Process Managers, Schedulers and Material Manager of any potential material availability considerations.
• Provide suppliers with projected usage and stocking level input.
• Visual color matching of components to color standards.

Supplier Sourcing (20%)

• Identify potential supplier sources capable of meeting requirements consistent with MWBE policy.
• Drive to prospective supplier factories and visually evaluate the physical conditions and processes deployed on the plant floor and in the office.
• Negotiate pricing, terms, and conditions.

Supplier Development (20%)

• Notify suppliers of quality concerns and work with them on root cause identification and corrective action.
• Work with suppliers to identify and implement cost saving ideas (CSI).
• Work with suppliers to deploy lean principles and quick response manufacturing concepts in their operations.

What You Need To Succeed

• Associates Degree or Bachelor's Degree in Business, Supply Chain Management or related field
• Professional experience in purchasing, inventory management, production planning, or related fields
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and MRP systems
• Experience with ISO requirements and audits are a plus

What KI Offers You

• Participation in our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP): As an employee, you will have stock ownership in the company.
• Competitive Health, Dental, & Vision Insurance: Comprehensive coverage for your well-being.
• A 401(k) Plan with Company Match: A retirement savings plan with employer contributions.
• Paid Vacation, Sick Days, & Holidays: Time off to recharge and spend with loved ones.
• Wellness Resources: Access to an on-site fitness center, fitness reimbursement program, and on-site nurse.
• Onsite Café: Enjoy a full breakfast and lunch menu right at work.
• Employee Product Discounts: Special pricing on company products.
• Educational Reimbursement Program: Support for degree programs and certifications.
• Full Benefits Package: Includes life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

KI is an Equal Opportunity Employer.