JOB TITLE: Lead Fabric Buyer

DEPARTMENT: Purchasing

FLSA STATUS: Nonexempt

LOCATION: LEE Corporate Campus

REPORTS TO: Director of Purchasing

SUMMARY

The Lead Fabric Buyer will support the plants through the timely procurement of quality materials supporting the manufacturing plan. The Lead Fabric Buyer will be a key resource for the department for educating systems and processes. Execute procurement strategies that ensure supply and optimize the total cost of ownership for the plants.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Order fabric, leather, trims, rugs and additional COM
• Work with vendor to solve quality issues
• Contact vendors regarding price discrepancies/shortages
• Handle confirmations of Purchase Orders
• Handle complaints in the field with customer service and vendor representative.
• Set up new fabrics/leathers/trims in the system.
• Key resources for Purchasing team members to go for help with processes and systems.
• Answer various customer service inquiries regarding quality, warranty, necessary information.
• Research pricing, on-time delivery, quality, and service aspects and maintenance of pricing
• Determine quantities and timing for delivery for items purchased.
• Analyze reports to assess weekly purchases.
• Inquire about past-due items from vendors.
• Manage price and grade changes through AS400
• Review and close out old Purchase Orders
• Set up added item numbers in AS400.
• Crosstrain with Fabric Buyer to provide backup necessary.
• All other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE SKILLS & ABILITIES REQUIREMENTS:

• Strong analytical abilities with attention to detail.
• Understanding of fabric standards and guidelines for upholstery fabrics and leathers
• Demonstrate decision-making and critical thinking skills.
• Work independently and make decisions according to best practices.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both written and verbally, throughout all internal levels of the organization and externally.
• High degree of initiative and motivation with the ability to work in a matrix environment or within a cross-functional team.
• Proven organizational and time management skills.
• Computer skills, including MS Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, etc.)
• Domestic and global supply chain knowledge
• Demonstrate ability to multitask and respond to constantly changing demands and priorities.
• Customer Centric attitude
• Negotiation, purchasing experience.
• Must be able to travel between plant locations.
• Ability to work full time.
• AS400 knowledge

DESIRED SKILLS:

• Excel capabilities
• AS400 & Infinium Knowledge
• Exposure to LEAN practices and knowledge

Soft Skills:

• Results-oriented, self-motivated customer focus: Able to gather and understand customer requirements and objectives.

• Influencing
• Effective team player
• Able to be persuasive in negotiations, as required.
• Professional manner

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods. (8-12 hours per day)
• Frequent use of hands and fingers for computer work and documentation.
• Occasional lifting and carrying of materials up to 25 lbs.
• Ability to bend, reach, and stoop when handling fabric samples or working with vendors.
• Visual acuity for reviewing fabric quality and reading detailed reports.
• Ability to travel between plant locations as needed.

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.