The Buyer/Planner will be responsible to oversee purchasing and production planning. This role will manage inventory levels, purchase materials and packaging utilizing an MRP system and other demand triggers, production planning, and working to meet the overall supply/production demands of the production facility. This position requires a continuous evaluation and adjustment of priorities and execution based on production needs and aligning with the company strategic direction.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Coordinates purchasing activities with Sales, Manufacturing, QA and R&D departments to acquire inventory in a cost effective and timely manner.

• Directly supports all the departments by obtaining materials and supplies needed to satisfy customer demands.

• Monitors the cost, schedule and scope of vendors and suppliers to assure the highest quality at the best price.

• Manages vendor pricing to obtain maximum ROI. Negotiate appropriate contracts for pricing and supply.

• • Develop strong relationships and keep up to date the MRP system and replenishment methods with vendors and suppliers.

• Issues Purchase Orders and monitors return of acknowledgement.

• Track incoming inventory, delivery arrival time, and track actual arrival time to grade on-time delivery metric by supplier.

• Manage delivery, quality performance, cost, and customer satisfaction for established vendors.

• Resolve billing and shipping problems and provide information to suppliers.

• Update minimum order quantities, lead-times and other pertinent information in the MRP item master.

• Work with production to develop a production plan and create work orders to flow through the factory.

• Identify and approve potential vendors and suppliers for future project needs.

• Act as the liaison with Leadership to ensure ERP system requirements are achieved and vendors are paid in a timely manner.

Qualification Requirements:

• Degree in Business, Supply Chain or other pertinent area of business, years of experience count towards a degree.
• Solid knowledge and understanding of purchasing/planning processes, policy, and systems
• A minimum of 3-5 years related experience in purchasing, production planning Proficient computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite
• Experience with MRP using an overall ERP system
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; able to negotiate, establish, and process contracts
• Able to multitask, prioritize, and manage time efficiently Strong organizational skills.