Buyer

Responsible for managing global supply chain and delivery of purchased product by ensuring that all goods are delivered on-time, of the highest quality level, and at the most competitive rate.

Technical Job Functions     

• Support the development and implementation of direct materials strategy by aggressively managing direct commodities as assigned.
• Responsible for timely planning of raw materials including forecast communications to suppliers (MRP, Min/max, VMI, KanBan).
• Prepare Purchase Orders and Request for Quotes, solicit bid proposals and review requisitions. 
• Drive supply base performance improvement by supporting the development and implementation of strategies to improve supply base on time delivery, reduce supplier lead times, optimize lot sizes and effectively manage overall procured component.
• Problem solve supply gaps impacting manufacturing schedule achievement and/or customer part fulfillment by identifying alternate supply sources, scheduling changes, and/or facilitating expediting activities with supply base.
• Evaluate supplier performance, communicate results, develop and implement strategies and tactics for improvement.
• Assist in Supplier invoice reconciliation

Authorities and Responsibilities              

• Work with Commodity Managers to implement sourcing initiatives and contract terms.
• Communicate supplier lead-times, order minimums and multiples, and other related supplier issues with Materials and Production as needed.
• Work with Engineering and Suppliers to resolve quality issues.
• Resolve price discrepancies by negotiating with vendors.
• Work with Supplier outside sales, inside sales, quality contacts, production, and upper management.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Attributes (KSAAS)

Knowledge

• Ability to satisfactorily complete and implement all OJT and required trainings.
• Ability to understand the organization structure, businesses and sites, and applying that knowledge to daily tasks, communications and assignments.
• Knowledge of fundamentals of purchasing and material planning functions.
• Ability to coordinate efforts from multiple groups in the company to achieve objectives.
• Basic knowledge of Manufacturing and Purchasing.

Analytical, Business and Technical

• Ability to apply job knowledge and skills to improve productivity, quality, timeliness and to solve problems using good judgment.

• Ability to implement new technologies or methods as needed.
• Ability to hold sensitive data and information in confidence.
• Ability to understand and implement AS9100, ISO and Lean Manufacturing methodologies.
• Ability to operate equipment and use tools and techniques effectively, efficiently and in accordance with ergonomic principles.
• Proficiency in software as required; ability to perform math calculations, measurement, analysis or reporting as directed.
• Ability to comply with Company policies and procedures.
• Financial modeling experience using Excel and/or Access.
• Strong computer, quantitative and data analysis skill set.
• Willing and able to participate effectively in a team environment and to provide effective work direction.
• Excellent organizational and problem solving skills.
• Project management skills and experience
• Ability to handle multiple tasks, with awareness of deadlines.
• Ability to identify process deficiencies, develop and implement improvements.

Communication

• Ability to communicate effectively and appropriately orally, in writing or electronically.
• Ability to communicate work goals, progress and changes as required.

Interpersonal

• Ability to apply interpersonal skills (empathy, negotiation, rapport, sensitivity), to develop and maintain effective working relationships.
• Ability to demonstrate character, integrity, honesty, ethical behaviors and industriousness.
• Ability to effectively participate in teams and projects and contribute to unit cohesiveness and productivity.
• Ability to anticipate, negotiate and manage conflicts, problems, changing situations and deadlines.
• Comfortable working with Global Team Members and Suppliers.

Quality

• You will be part of a QMS (Quality Management System) that continually aims to reduce/eliminate non-conformances while striving to meet/exceed customer expectations in the most cost effective and efficient manner.

Safety

• Safety at Cinch is a commitment to every employee as we strive to provide maximum safety to all employees in the Waseca facility and all Cinch divisions.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

Education and Experience:

Basic Qualifications

• A combination of education and experience will be considered. Bachelor’s degree or two-year degree in Business, Supply Chain or related field.  Three years’ experience in procurement. Or, a combination of education and experience.
• Understanding of Supply Chain dynamics, including Operations, Procurement and Logistics and ERP.
• Must be a US Citizen or Permanent Resident.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Production/Operations Management, Business or Engineering.
• Two years of experience in procurement, preferably in a manufacturing organization.
• CPIM, ISM, APICS or Supply Chain certification.