For over 60 years, Vanguard has been a leading provider of solutions and services for fire protection, life safety, and security systems from design to installation and inspections.

Vanguard Fire & Security Systems, Inc. is looking for a Purchasing Manager to join our team at our headquarters in Grand Rapids, MI. This person must have exceptional attention to detail and be able to solve inventory problems, track orders, and identify new vendor opportunities.

The position is perfect for those people looking to take an active part in an organization’s ability to service our customers.

Vanguard offers a highly competitive compensation and benefits package including PTO, paid holidays, and a 401K plan.

Responsibilities:

Managing daily purchasing activities, supervising staff, and allocating tasks

Developing and implementing purchasing strategies

Managing supplier relations and negotiating contracts, prices, timelines, etc.

Identify purchasing needs proactively and be able to identify potential vendors in a timely manner

Communicate with department leaders for new projects to order materials to be delivered to the office or job site

Continuously evaluate and improve procurement practices, including identifying cost-saving opportunities and process enhancements

Support daily office operations and team communications

Qualifications:

Previous experience in purchasing is required in a service or construction environment

Comfortable working with vendors to negotiate or determine order pricing when possible

In-depth knowledge of Microsoft products, including Excel

Ability to prioritize and multi-task

Strong problem-solving and communication skills needed