Purchasing Manager

Purchasing Manager

About Us

Velocity is the nation’s leading and largest builder of classic American vehicles, redefining what it means to own a classic. Our vehicles aren’t just restored—they’re entirely reborn. We blend the timeless soul and aesthetics of vintage cars with the performance, technology, and reliability of modern automobiles. By shifting away from traditional one-off restorations with their many uncertainties, we have set a new standard—delivering meticulously crafted, high-performance classics with enhanced reliability and drivability.

Velocity’s Culture and Core Values

Success at Velocity requires a “whatever it takes” mentality. We embody grit, demonstrating perseverance, resilience, and unwavering determination in the face of challenges. We are adaptable, embracing change, adjusting to new circumstances, and continuously seeking ways to improve processes and outcomes—because growth does not come from comfort.

We take ownership, assuming full responsibility for tasks, decisions, and outcomes, whether successes or setbacks, without shifting blame. “That’s not my job” is not in our vocabulary; when one part of our team falls short, we all do.

Finally, our ambition fuels our drive to excel, improve, and uphold the highest standards for both personal and professional growth. This mindset defines who we are and ensures our continued success.

Overview

The Purchasing Agent is responsible for sourcing, negotiating, and procuring the parts, materials, and supplies needed for our custom automotive builds. This individual will ensure that purchases meet quality standards, are cost-effective, and are delivered on time to support our production schedule. The ideal candidate has a keen eye for detail, strong negotiation skills, and a solid understanding of the automotive industry.

Job Level

Manager

Reports To

Director of Supply Chain

Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the purchasing team, providing guidance, support, and performance evaluations.
• Develop and implement strategic sourcing initiatives to optimize costs, quality, and lead times.
• Drive demand planning efforts to ensure material availability aligns with production schedules and business needs.
• Hold vendors accountable for pricing, quality, and timely deliveries, negotiating effectively to prevent shortages and delays.
• Continuously assess and improve procurement processes, leveraging data to drive efficiency and reduce waste.
• Ensure seamless integration of procurement workflows with both manual and automated ERP systems.
• Collaborate with internal teams, including production, logistics, and finance, to ensure smooth operations.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to procurement and supply chain efficiency, reporting findings to leadership.
• Develop contingency plans to mitigate risks associated with supply chain disruptions.

Required Skills and Abilities

• Excellent negotiation and communication skills.
• Proficiency in inventory management systems, purchasing software, and ERP systems.
• Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to identify cost-saving opportunities.

Education Background and Experience

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in purchasing or supply chain management, with at least 5 years in a leadership role managing direct reports.
• Automotive manufacturing or similar industry experience preferred.
• Proven experience in demand planning and inventory management.
• Strong negotiation skills with a demonstrated ability to hold vendors accountable.
• Experience working with both manual and automated ERP systems.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, evolving environment with a drive for continuous improvement.
• Excellent communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, business administration, or a related field. Master’s degree preferred. This can be substituted for 12 years of work experience and purchasing certification.

Key Performance Indicators (Performance will be tracked by the following data metrics)

• Annual cost saving of 3% based on annual spend volume
• Inventory turns: 4 
• Shortages to the production lines
• Recovery timing for supplier disposition of RMA items 30-60 days

Physical Demands (To include but not limited to)

• Ability to lift and carry heavy items, typically ranging from 25 to 50 pounds, and occasionally up to 75 pounds with assistance.
• Prolonged periods of standing, walking, and moving throughout the warehouse, often on hard surfaces.
• Frequent bending, stooping, kneeling, or squatting to retrieve or place items.
• Regularly reaching overhead to access inventory on high shelves.
• Climbing ladders or step stools to handle inventory stored at height.
• Pushing and pulling carts, pallet jacks, or other materials-handling equipment.
• Operating forklifts and other material-handling equipment safely and efficiently.
• Adhering to safety protocols for all equipment operation, including proper inspection and maintenance before use.
• Handling and manipulating objects, including packaging and labeling, requiring fine motor skills.
• Performing repetitive motions, such as scanning items, assembling packages, or operating machinery.
• Working in environments with varying temperatures, such as unheated or non-air-conditioned warehouses.
• Exposure to dust, noise, and occasionally strong odors from materials or equipment.
• Visual ability to read labels, identify parts, and use computer screens.
• Auditory ability to hear safety instructions, alarms, or communication in a noisy environment.
• Sustained physical activity for the duration of the shift, often requiring stamina and energy management.
• This position requires a high level of focus and adherence to safety standards, as it involves operating heavy equipment and handling potentially hazardous materials.
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, safety glasses, and steel-toed boots, is mandatory.
• Any impairment due to substances or distractions is strictly prohibited while performing job duties.
• Flexibility to work overtime or extended shifts when required.
• Must follow all company policies and safety guidelines to ensure a safe working environment.

Benefits Include

• Compensation: Pay is based on experience and qualifications
• Health & Wellness: Health/Dental/Vision/Life/Disability/Aflac available after 60 days
• Retirement: 401(k) with company match after 6 months at next enrollment period         
• Paid Time Off:  Paid time off and paid holidays
• Additional Perks: Company sponsored events, tool program, merchandise discounts, friendly team environment

Job duties, salary, and benefits are subject to change throughout duration of employment with Velocity.

Velocity is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Velocity does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.