Purchasing & Supply Chain Manager

Our client is a specialty distributor of industrial automation controls and a value-added manufacturer of custom control panel solutions, serving manufacturers, OEMs, systems integrators, and industrial end users across North America. With nearly 20 years of industry expertise, the company has built a reputation for technical excellence, responsive service, and strong customer relationships. The Position As the Purchasing & Supply Chain Manager, you'll lead the purchasing team and provide strategic insights in areas related to demand forecasting, vendor management, and inventory optimization. This leadership role is ideal for someone who enjoys building processes, optimizing supply chains, developing teams, and driving meaningful business results. Primary responsibilities include: Lead and develop the purchasing team, providing coaching, structure, and professional growth opportunities. Build and implement demand forecasting and inventory planning processes to improve supply chain visibility and decision-making. Develop purchasing strategies that optimize inventory levels while maintaining high service levels and product availability. Establish vendor scorecards, negotiation frameworks, and strategic supplier relationship management practices. Lead supplier negotiations to improve pricing, terms, and overall vendor performance. Drive working capital improvements through inventory optimization initiatives, including reducing excess and obsolete inventory. Monitor and report on purchasing and supply chain KPIs to provide leadership with actionable insights. Oversee tariff classifications, HTS codes, and import/customs compliance activities. Partner cross-functionally with warehouse operations, customer service, product management, and accounting teams to support business objectives. Identify and implement process improvements that enhance efficiency, scalability, and overall supply chain effectiveness. Qualifications and Candidate Background The ideal candidate will have: Experience managing a purchasing or supply chain function within a distribution environment, including both domestic and international suppliers. Demonstrated success in demand forecasting, inventory planning, and supply chain optimization using data-driven methodologies. Experience developing supplier scorecards, conducting vendor negotiations, and managing strategic supplier relationships. Experience with ERP systems, with NetSuite experience strongly preferred. Knowledge of tariff classifications, HTS codes, and import logistics is highly desirable. Experience within industrial distribution is strongly preferred; candidates from related industries such as electrical, HVAC, or MRO distribution are also encouraged to apply. #J-18808-Ljbffr TalentCompass