Procurement Manager

Job Description:

We are seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented Procurement Manager to join our growing manufacturing company located in Columbia, South Carolina. This role is key to ensuring the seamless operation of our supply chain and procurement activities. As a Procurement Manager, you will be responsible for leading the procurement function, managing supplier relationships, and driving cost savings across various categories of materials and components. You will oversee one direct report, ensuring that the procurement team operates efficiently and effectively in support of manufacturing needs.

Key Responsibilities:

• Supplier Identification & Relationship Management: Identify and evaluate potential suppliers, negotiate contracts, and foster long-term, mutually beneficial relationships with vendors and suppliers to ensure high-quality materials are sourced at competitive prices.
• Cost Negotiations & Savings: Lead price and contract negotiations with suppliers to drive cost-effective solutions while maintaining product quality and service standards. Monitor procurement expenses and identify opportunities for cost savings across the business.
• Demand Planning & Inventory Management: Work closely with production teams to assess material demand and ensure timely procurement of materials and parts to meet production schedules. Balance inventory levels to avoid both shortages and overstock.
• SAP Utilization: Use SAP (Systems, Applications, and Products) software to track procurement activities, manage purchase orders, update inventory, and generate procurement reports. Ensure accuracy in the system and leverage SAP tools for efficient procurement and reporting.
• Team Collaboration: Serve as a strong team player, collaborating with internal teams including production, logistics, finance, and quality control to align procurement strategies with company objectives. Lead one direct report, providing guidance, mentorship, and performance oversight.
• Reporting & Analysis: Prepare and present regular procurement reports to senior management, including performance metrics, supplier performance, and cost-saving initiatives.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor's Degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field, OR a minimum of 10 years of experience in procurement within a manufacturing environment.
• Experience: Procurement experience in a manufacturing setting with a proven track record of successfully managing supplier relationships, contract negotiations, and cost savings initiatives.
• SAP Knowledge: Proficiency in using SAP software for procurement functions is required. Experience with SAP for managing purchase orders, reporting, and data analysis is essential.
• Technical Skills: Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint). Advanced Excel skills (e.g., VLOOKUP, pivot tables) are a plus.
• Soft Skills: Strong communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Team Leadership: Experience in managing and developing a small team is preferred.