Buyer

SUMMARY:

The Buyer will be responsible for procuring materials, parts, and components necessary for the production of automotive products. This position will work closely with the production, quality control, and logistics teams to ensure timely delivery of materials and to maintain cost-effectiveness in sourcing. The Buyer will also manage supplier relationships, monitor inventory levels, and analyze market trends to ensure that the company’s purchasing strategy supports operational efficiency and quality standards.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Procurement: Source and purchase raw materials, automotive components, and supplies in alignment with production schedules and company requirements.

Supplier Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, negotiate pricing and terms, and monitor supplier performance to ensure product quality, delivery timelines, and cost-effectiveness.

Inventory Control: Monitor and maintain optimal inventory levels to avoid shortages or overstock situations, working with the inventory team to track stock levels.

Cost Management: Work to reduce procurement costs through effective negotiation, vendor selection, and purchasing strategies.

Market Research: Stay informed of market trends, material prices, and new suppliers to optimize purchasing decisions.

Collaboration:

Work with engineering, production, and quality assurance teams to understand material specifications, quality standards, and delivery schedules.

Order Management: Place purchase orders, track order status, and ensure on-time delivery of materials.

Problem-Solving: Address supply chain disruptions, resolve quality issues, and implement corrective actions as necessary.

Reporting: Maintain accurate records of purchases, supplier performance, and inventory levels; provide regular reports to management on purchasing activities and cost savings.

KEY COMPETENCIES:

Analytical Thinking: Ability to assess complex procurement data, market conditions, and supplier performance to make informed purchasing decisions.

Negotiation Skills: Strong ability to negotiate pricing, terms, and delivery schedules with suppliers to ensure cost-effective purchasing while maintaining product quality.

Supply Chain Knowledge: In-depth understanding of supply chain processes, materials management, and logistics.

Attention to Detail: Meticulous attention to detail in reviewing purchase orders, contracts, and supplier terms.

Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for interaction with internal teams and external suppliers.

Time Management: Ability to prioritize tasks, manage time efficiently, and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment.

Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with ERP software, purchasing systems, and data analysis tools.

EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION:

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, or related field (preferred)

3 years of experience in purchasing or supply chain management, ideally within the automotive industry

Strong negotiation, communication, and analytical skills

Proficient in MS Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and experience with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software (e.g., SAP, Oracle)

Knowledge of automotive components, materials, and suppliers

Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment

Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to make data-driven decisions

Knowledge of industry standards and regulations regarding automotive components and suppliers

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, stand, talk, hear, and walk. Occasionally bend, squat, reach, twist/turn and lift up to 10 lbs. Specific vision abilities required by this job include ability to adjust