The Purchasing Buyer is responsible for procuring raw materials, components, and packaging supplies while ensuring optimal inventory levels to meet production schedules. This role requires strong experience in scheduling and planning to align purchasing activities with production demand, minimizing disruptions, and optimizing costs in a fast-paced cosmetic manufacturing environment. The Purchasing Buyer will work closely with suppliers, production teams, and supply chain personnel to ensure seamless operations.
Key Responsibilities:
- Procurement & Supplier Management (40%)
- Source and purchase raw materials, components, and packaging based on production needs and forecasts.
- Negotiate pricing, terms, and lead times with suppliers to optimize costs and delivery schedules.
- Maintain strong supplier relationships to ensure reliability and resolve supply issues proactively.
- Scheduling & Planning Coordination (30%)
- Collaborate with production planning teams to align purchasing activities with demand forecasts and manufacturing schedules.
- Monitor inventory levels and implement reorder strategies to prevent material shortages or overstocking.
- Assist in capacity planning by ensuring materials are available for scheduled production runs.
- Inventory & Cost Control (20%)
- Conduct regular inventory audits and work with warehouse teams to maintain accuracy.
- Track material usage, waste, and order variances to identify cost-saving opportunities.
- Optimize purchasing decisions to reduce costs without compromising quality and production efficiency.
- Process Improvement & Compliance (10%)
- Implement and enhance procurement best practices to improve efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
- Ensure all purchasing activities comply with company policies, industry regulations, and sustainability initiatives.
- Maintain accurate records of purchase orders, supplier contracts, and pricing agreements.
Qualifications & Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related field (or equivalent experience).
- Minimum of 3-5 years of purchasing experience, preferably in cosmetic or manufacturing industries.
- Strong knowledge of procurement processes, inventory management, and production planning.
- Experience with SAP systems and proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook).
- Excellent negotiation, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities.
- Strong analytical skills with attention to detail.
- Knowledge of regulatory requirements for cosmetic manufacturing is a plus.
Preferred Skills:
- Experience working with global suppliers and managing lead times.
- APICS or CPIM certification is a plus.
- Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
