The Material Buyer is responsible for sourcing, purchasing, and managing the supply of raw materials, components, and production-related goods required to support manufacturing and operational needs. This role ensures materials are available when needed, at the best possible cost, quality, and delivery performance while maintaining optimal inventory levels.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
- Plan and purchase materials based on production schedules, forecasts, and customer demand.
- Monitor inventory levels and place purchase orders to maintain material availability.
- Negotiate pricing, delivery schedules, and contract terms with suppliers.
- Develop and maintain strong supplier relationships.
- Analyze material requirements and adjust purchasing activities to support business objectives.
- Coordinate with production, planning, logistics, quality, and engineering teams to resolve material-related issues.
- Track supplier performance related to quality, cost, and delivery metrics.
- Expedite critical orders and manage supply chain disruptions.
- Maintain accurate purchasing records within ERP/MRP systems.
- Support inventory control initiatives and work to reduce excess or obsolete inventory.
- Review and process purchase requisitions and ensure compliance with company policies.
- Identify cost-saving opportunities through supplier development and strategic sourcing initiatives.
- Participate in supplier audits, evaluations, and continuous improvement programs.
- Ensure purchased materials meet quality, regulatory, and customer requirements.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education
- Post-secondary education in Business, Supply Chain Management, Operations Management, or a related field is preferred.
- Professional certifications such as APICS/ASCM, CPSM, or PMAC are considered an asset.
Experience
- 2–5 years of purchasing, procurement, material planning, or supply chain experience in a manufacturing environment.
- Experience working with ERP/MRP systems.
- Knowledge of inventory management and production planning processes.
KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS
- Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and ERP systems.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills.
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities.
- Understanding of supply chain, inventory control, and lean manufacturing principles.
- Attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS (KPIs)
- Supplier on-time delivery performance.
- Material availability and line stoppage prevention.
- Inventory turns and inventory accuracy.
- Purchase price variance (PPV).
- Cost savings achieved through sourcing initiatives.
- Supplier quality performance.
- Tally Works transaction accuracy.
- Reduction of excess and obsolete inventory.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Office-based role with frequent interaction with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
- Occasional travel to supplier and HQ locations may be required.
- May support urgent procurement activities outside standard business hours when supply disruptions occur.
