Buyer, Senior

SUMMARY

Primary responsibility is to ensure an efficient supply of goods and materials globally. This is a key position in maintaining positive relationships with our supply base. Focus is on customer, quality, cost, supply reliability and expanded sourcing. The Senior Buyer will communicate supply/ logistics issues as early as possible.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Negotiate/maintain cost efficient supply sources. Provide recommendations to the Purchasing team to increase supply chain efficiencies related to sourcing.
2. Develop and deliver on cost improvement targets.
3. Serve as the department lead when needed.
4. Develop, maintain and report results of vendors utilizing scorecards to improve quality performance.
5. Negotiate resolutions to quality, cost and delivery issues with suppliers.
6. Support inter-department efforts (Production, PIC, Quality, Cost improvement, I.S., New Product Development, Accounting, etc.) as needed.
7. Evaluate and provide feedback regarding demand forecast on purchased products.
8. Assure accuracy of purchasing related master data in SAP, and in other systems.
9. Optimize SAP application for purchasing and related accounting (A.P.) functions.
10. Understand and comply with Mueller Quality System and current regulatory requirements. Provide recommendations to assure supply base is positioned to meet quality and regulatory standards.
11. Develop BPPs based on experience and knowledge of SAP transactions and processes.
12. Complete required vendor audits and inspections.
13. Travel to vendor sites in and outside of the U.S.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The physical requirements for this position are typical of a warehouse and office environment.

• Sitting, standing and walking up to 10 hours a day
• Occasional lifting up to 20 pounds

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The employee will work in an office environment about 70% and a warehouse environment about 30%. Some international travel required.

QUALIFICATIONS

• A four-year degree in a business, finance, or related field, MBA preferred. Experience considered in lieu of four-year degree.
• Five years (or more) of key responsibilities in a manufacturing environment.
• A solid foundation and understanding of business finance is required.
• Must be experienced and proficient with MRP/ERP systems (SAP preferred).
• Strong analytical and communication and presentation skills (oral and written).
• Problem solving abilities and the ability to work well with others in resolving operational challenges.