Merchandising Lead

Mission of the Role

The Merchandising Lead, SAS is responsible for sourcing, purchasing, and inventory management of assigned product lines. This role will source product for open stock and specific customer requirements while negotiating pricing and terms. It is also essential for this position to optimize product availability to create high fill rates, while improving inventory asset performance and manage vendor performance levels, supplier contract cost agreements, and any related rebates.

Key Duties & Accountabilities

• Develop and implement strategic sourcing plans aligning with company objectives and customer requirements.
• Source, purchase, and manage inventory for assigned product lines, ensuring product availability and optimizing inventory asset performance.
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with vendors to drive collaboration, secure favorable pricing, and ensure compliance with company quality standards.
• Negotiate and manage supplier agreements, including terms, pricing, volume rebates, and cost-saving opportunities.
• Conduct supplier performance evaluations, addressing issues and driving continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensure timely and accurate processing of customer orders, purchase orders, and quotation requests following approved procedures.
• Utilize procurement databases (e.g., ProcurePro, Amtech) to evaluate pricing, analyze market trends, and ensure sourcing from the best suppliers.
• Monitor inventory levels, minimizing excess stock while maintaining high fill rates (95% or higher on stock items).
• Collaborate cross-functionally with sales, operations, and customer service teams to ensure seamless execution of sourcing, procurement, and order fulfillment processes.
• Participate in SupplyOne Procurement Council, leveraging it to identify vendors and sourcing solutions.
• Ensure adherence to standardized procurement and inventory management protocols.
• Validate and negotiate vendor price increases, ensuring competitiveness and cost efficiency.
• Manage vendor performance KPIs such as on-time delivery, fill rate, and quality assurance compliance.
• Identify and recommend best sources for products based on quality, pricing, delivery reliability, and supplier capabilities.
• Coordinate with suppliers for samples as needed by Sales, ensuring minimal delay and cost impact.
• Stay informed about industry regulations, market dynamics, and emerging trends that may impact sourcing and procurement strategies.

Educational/ Training Requirements/ Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent business experience
• 3 years of work experience in purchasing, strategic sourcing, negotiation, inventory managagement and vendor management.
• Packaging industry and distribution experience is preferred
• Critical thinking and negotiation skills.
• Knowledge of business priciples is advantageous

Minimum Skills, Knowledge & Ability Requirements

• Proficient in Microsoft Office
• Strong organizational and communication skills; ability to prioritize tasks
• Demonstrated initiative in personal professional development
• Basic arithmetic including gross profit calculation
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• High level of ethics & personal integrity
• Follow all safety rules and regulations
• Cross functional influencing and conflict management skills