Senior Buyer

Department: Materials Company Description At Bekum, we work hard, support each other, and take pride in doing things the right way. We’re a family-oriented manufacturing team that believes strong relationships — both inside our walls and with our suppliers — make all the difference. We’re looking for a Buyer who values partnership, thinks strategically, and understands how their work keeps production moving and customers happy. Job Description The Senior Buyer is responsible for sourcing and purchasing cost-effective commodities, services, and materials to ensure uninterrupted production and excellent customer service. Drives value through vendor negotiations, strategic sourcing, market research, and accurate system management. When assigned, supervises and coordinates the activities of Buyer(s) and/or Junior Buyer(s) and carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with company policies and applicable laws. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned. Identifies products or services to be purchased through provided requisitions, direct purchase. Reviews and analyzes requisitions, department requests, and MRP system requirements to identify products and services to be purchased. Negotiates pricing, terms, and shipping methods to secure the most cost-effective and reliable supply solutions. Manages expenditures within authorized limits and supports budget objectives. Establishes and maintains strong working relationships with suppliers, subcontractors, and service providers. Develops and qualifies reliable alternate sources of supply to mitigate risk and ensure continuity. Identifies and sources comparable American product lines for German/Austrian components when applicable. Places purchase orders; confirms receipt and accuracy of orders; arranges shipping; tracks and expedites deliveries to ensure on-time receipt. Maintains accurate documentation of purchase orders, returns, and supplier performance within the MRP and other database systems. Investigates nonconforming or failed items and collaborates with vendors and internal departments to determine effective resolutions. Partners with internal departments to evaluate potential outsourcing opportunities and forecast future purchasing needs. Communicates order status and delivery updates to internal stakeholders on a regular basis. Expedites critical components as necessary to support operational continuity. Conducts ongoing market research to remain informed on industry trends, pricing fluctuations, and supply risks. Identifies, tracks, and reports cost-saving initiatives and continuous improvement projects. Strong negotiation skills and analytical capabilities are essential to success in this role. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: As assigned by the Purchasing Manager, supervises Buyers within the Purchasing Department. Responsibilities include interviewing and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; evaluating performance; recognizing achievement; addressing employee concerns; and resolving problems in accordance with company policies and applicable laws. Qualifications EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, or a related field preferred. Six (6) to ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience in purchasing, supply chain, or a related field required; manufacturing environment experience preferred. An equivalent combination of education, training, certification, and relevant experience that demonstrates the required knowledge and skills will be considered. Technical aptitude related to manufacturing commodities is beneficial. OTHER SKILLS and ABILITIES: Proficiency in standard business software applications, including Microsoft Outlook, Excel, and Word, as well as ERP and MRP systems. Demonstrated negotiation skills and the ability to manage vendor relationships effectively. Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities. Effective written and verbal communication skills. Ability to travel as business needs require. Ability to perform job duties in compliance with established quality, safety, and operational standards. Reasonable accommodations will be made in accordance with applicable law to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions. Additional Information Bekum America Corporation offers a total compensation package that emphasizes the health and wellbeing of our diverse workforce, and encourages work-life balance. Our comprehensive benefits suite aligns with our belief that people are at the center of our success and should be valued as such. Bekum America offers full medical, dental, vision, life, short and long term disability, tuition assistance, paid holidays, competitive vacation package, 401 (K) with company match and profit sharing, increases tied to performance, and a path for continued training and development. Bekum America Corporation reserves the right to change, amend, add, delete, and otherwise assign any and all duties, responsibilities, and position titles as it deems necessary to meet the needs of its business. #J-18808-Ljbffr