Buyer II

This position reports to the Purchasing Manager and will operate cross functionally with all departments. In this role, you will be responsible for commodity planning, supplier selection, negotiating and purchase order management of a diverse product portfolio, ensuring that the Company’s operational needs are met, taking into consideration price, quality, delivery, and sustainability. As an important business partner, you will develop and execute the commodity supply plan, manage internal customer service expectations, and ensure supply continuity in a timely and efficient manner. This role will also provide support and leadership as needed to other buyers in the department. To be successful, you must serve as a subject matter professional in assigned commodities and have a deep understanding of packaging technology and a sound working knowledge of materials, cost drivers, market conditions as well as operations.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Strategic Thinking:

• Manage purchase orders for assigned commodities to ensure timely delivery of materials to manufacturing plants.
• Develop an optimized supply base and buy plan to support customer service and manage inventory.
• Provide spending and price variance analysis for assigned commodities.
• Continuously asses supplier base for quality, delivery, cost, technology, sustainability, and risk management.
• Analyze markets and commodity indices to understand drivers of cost.
• Assist with ERP system development, utilization, and refinement.
• Report supplier metrics such as on-time delivery and quality.
• Prepare and lead supplier reviews for top suppliers
• Support Purchasing Agreements and Supplier Contracts.

Cross-Functional Engagement:

• Act as a critical business partner to all departments.
• Work with plants to identify opportunities that support manufacturing efficiencies.
• Develop inventory plans for assigned materials and ensure timely deliveries accordingly.
• Work with finance to support P&L scenarios for new and on-going commodities/projects.
• Support Sales/Marketing on new product and re-stage initiatives.
• Lead qualifications for alternate suppliers/materials as needed.
• Attend meeting and provide updates on issues, such as when there is supply risk.
• Engage in productivity-innovation projects for assigned commodities.
• Identify and lead external sustainability opportunities to support Corporate Social Responsibility goals/initiatives.

• Understanding and knowledge of the packaging industry.
• Strong negotiating skills along with demonstrated supplier relationship management.
• Strong analytical competencies.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Critical thinking with problem solving skills.
• Highly developed presentation skills.
• Extensive knowledge and experience in supply chain management.
• Creative mindset.
• Solid organizational and interpersonal skills.

• Bachelor's Degree or equivalent experience.
• 5-7 years purchasing experience, preferably within a CPG company.
• Experience in annual budgeting process.
• Experience with ERP systems.
• Proficient computer skills including Microsoft Office Suite - Excel and PowerPoint.
• APICs Certification (CSCP a plus)

Travel Requirements:

• Approximately 10% domestic travel (Manufacturing plants, supplier visits).