Job Overview
We are seeking an experienced and strategic Purchasing Manager to lead and oversee procurement activities for our manufacturing and fence installation operations specializing in steel gates, fencing, and welded wire systems. This newly created role will be responsible for developing purchasing strategies, managing supplier relationships, optimizing inventory levels, and ensuring the timely and cost-effective acquisition of raw materials, components, and services.
The Purchasing Manager will play a critical role in supporting operational efficiency, controlling costs, mitigating supply chain risks, and contributing to the successful implementation of our new ERP system. This position will work closely with production, sales, and finance teams to support the company’s growth objectives.
Duties
Procurement & Supplier Management
- Develop and execute purchasing strategies aligned with business objectives.
- Source, evaluate, negotiate, and manage suppliers to ensure quality, service, and cost competitiveness.
- Establish and maintain strong supplier relationships and performance metrics.
- Lead contract negotiations and manage vendor agreements.
- Identify and qualify alternative suppliers to reduce supply chain risk.
Inventory & Materials Management
- Oversee purchasing activities to maintain optimal inventory levels while minimizing carrying costs.
- Collaborate with production and operations teams to ensure material availability and continuity of supply.
- Monitor inventory trends and forecast purchasing requirements.
- Support cycle counts, inventory accuracy initiatives, and inventory optimization projects.
Cost Management & Continuous Improvement
- Identify opportunities for cost savings and process improvements.
- Analyze purchasing data, pricing trends, and market conditions.
- Develop and track key purchasing metrics, including supplier performance, cost reductions, and inventory turnover.
- Collaborate with finance on inventory costing, budgeting, and forecasting activities.
ERP Implementation & Process Development
- Participate in the implementation and ongoing optimization of the company's ERP system.
- Develop and document purchasing policies, procedures, and internal controls.
- Establish scalable procurement processes to support business growth.
- Ensure purchasing transactions and data are accurately maintained within the ERP system.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Work closely with production, engineering, sales, and finance teams to support customer requirements and production schedules.
- Participate in planning meetings and provide procurement insights to business decisions.
- Support new product development initiatives through supplier sourcing and cost analysis.
Qualifications
Education
- Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field.
- Professional purchasing designation (SCMP, CPSM, CPM, or equivalent) is considered an asset.
Experience
- 5+ years of progressive purchasing or procurement experience within a manufacturing environment.
- Experience sourcing steel, fabricated products, industrial materials, or construction-related products is preferred.
- Demonstrated success negotiating contracts and managing supplier relationships.
- Experience with ERP systems and inventory management processes.
Skills & Competencies
- Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Knowledge of inventory control and supply chain best practices.
- Strong understanding of manufacturing operations and production planning.
- Proficiency with ERP systems and Microsoft Excel.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to prioritize and manage multiple initiatives in a fast-paced environment.
- Results-oriented with strong attention to detail.
All qualified applicants must be legally entitled to work in Canada.
Wallace & Wallace is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Company events
- Dental care
- Disability insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Extended health care
- Life insurance
- On-site parking
- RRSP match
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision care
Education:
- Bachelor's Degree (preferred)
Experience:
- Purchasing or Procurement: 5 years (preferred)
Licence/Certification:
- Professional Purchasing Designation (preferred)
Work Location: In person
