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Director of Purchasing Profile / Job Description

Job Overview

The Purchasing Director is responsible for developing a strategic approach to the corporate purchasing and material management process for the purchase of direct and indirect goods and services. In this leadership role, the Purchasing Director will direct the procurement of goods and services for the client, assist purchasing team members and colleagues with procurement processes, change and update other procurement-related activities; develop and/or update procurement policies and procedures and develop a centralized procurement program that will add value and efficiency to the organization. The Purchasing Director’s team will have tactical responsibility for the development and implementation of policies, procedures and systems that support the company’s acquisition and materials management of goods and services.

Responsibilities

  • Source new suppliers, establish relationships with vendors, negotiate purchasing contracts and manage the purchasing process from the request for proposal (RFP) stage through delivery.
  • Develop, communicate and administer Purchasing team performance and development plans and appraisals.
  • Solve order grievances and discrepancies.
  • Manage current purchasing policies, procedures and programs with a focus on their ability to enhance organizational value and efficiency; meet regularly with respective departments regarding procurement for their understanding and/or recommendations to enhance policies, procedures and develop, communicate and implement new/revised policies, procedures and programs as needed.
  • Obtain materials from suppliers at the lowest cost consistent with considerations of quality, reliability of source and urgency of need.
  • Process change orders, notifying vendors of materials and quantity requirement revision; contact vendors on rate adjustments and incorrect materials.
  • Monitor price trends of raw materials and supplies, interview vendors, recommend sources, timing and quantity of purchases.
  • Supervise employees directly including selection, training, performance appraisal and work allocation.
  • Cooperate and coordinate with other departments to ensure smooth flow of materials.
  • Handle negotiations with suppliers regarding conflicts or questions on prices, deliveries and specifications.
  • Maintain files and records of current and potential suppliers, prices, delivery dates and inventories.
  • Develop additional or alternate sources of supply for important materials.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned or requested.

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Logistics, Supply Chain or related field;
  • 7-10 years of related experience, with at least 3 years of supervisory experience;
  • Purchasing or Supply Chain Professional/Manager certification preferred;
  • Results-oriented, metrics-driven leader with expertise in purchasing, supplier collaboration, development and compliance;
  • Experience with sourcing and procurement and building a vendor program;
  • Solid experience with SAP;
  • Solid analytical and computer skills;
  • Strong communication skills;
  • Outstanding team building and leadership skills.