Buyer

Job Description

Job Description

Robert Half is partnering with a growing distribution organization to identify a Buyer who will play a critical role in managing inventory, replenishment, and demand planning across a multi-location distribution network. This position is responsible for ensuring the right products are available at the right time while maintaining optimal inventory levels, maximizing service levels, and supporting efficient supply chain operations. This role offers the opportunity to make a direct impact on operational performance, customer satisfaction, and overall supply chain efficiency across a large regional network.

The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in purchasing, multi-site inventory management, and demand forecasting within a distribution environment. Working closely with vendors, branch locations, and internal purchasing teams, this individual will oversee inventory replenishment, coordinate inter-branch transfers, monitor vendor performance, enforce inventory controls, and develop strategies to improve inventory turns and reduce carrying costs.

Success in this position requires exceptional analytical skills, advanced Excel capabilities, experience with distribution ERP systems, and a deep understanding of inventory planning concepts such as safety stock, reorder points, lead-time variability, and inventory turnover.

Responsibilities:

• Direct purchasing and replenishment activities for a 21-location distribution network by reviewing demand patterns, lead times, and branch-specific sales trends to maintain reliable product availability.

• Develop inventory forecasts and place purchase orders that align with seasonal demand, regional requirements, and targeted stock levels across multiple facilities.

• Coordinate product movement between branches to rebalance inventory, reduce excess holdings, and improve service levels throughout the network.

• Implement and monitor consistent cycle count and physical inventory practices across all locations, investigating discrepancies and identifying the root causes of variances.

• Manage rotation controls for shelf-sensitive materials by tracking batch information, monitoring expiration timelines, and enforcing first-in, first-out handling procedures.

• Evaluate supplier performance using delivery reliability, fill rate, and compliance measures, and work with vendors to improve purchasing outcomes.

• Support freight efficiency by consolidating inbound shipments where appropriate and selecting cost-effective transportation approaches for multi-branch deliveries.

• Maintain accurate inventory records, reporting, and purchasing data within the company’s distribution systems and Excel-based analytical tools.

• Travel occasionally to regional facilities to review warehouse inventory processes, audit local practices, and provide guidance to branch teams.

• At least 5 years of experience in purchasing, procurement, or inventory control within a multi-site distribution environment.

• Proven success managing inventory across 10 or more physical locations, with floorcovering or related distribution experience strongly preferred.

• Advanced proficiency with multi-location distribution or purchasing systems; experience with Gartman Systems is especially valuable.

• Expert-level Microsoft Excel skills, including pivot tables, Power Query, and data analysis techniques used for forecasting and inventory planning.

• Strong understanding of replenishment methods, safety stock planning, reorder logic, lead-time variability, and inventory turnover measurement.

• Experience overseeing perishable or shelf-life-sensitive inventory using structured stock rotation practices.

• Working knowledge of import logistics, including coordinating inbound product through ports to distribution points.

Compensation & Benefits:

• The targeted salary range for this position is $70-90K

• Full benefits package (medical, dental, vision)

• PTO + Paid Holidays

• Opportunity for long-term career advancement