At SWM, we'll never be okay with status quo. We are committed to raising standards, providing growth opportunities to our employees and giving our customers the answers, the value, and the edge they need to compete and win.
At SWM, Essential isn't just what we make. It's what we do.
Every day, our papers, films, and nets and nonwovens are used in a diverse range of products, applications and industries around the world. As experts in highly engineered materials made from fibers, resins and polymers, we provide solutions to make products stronger, more durable and with increased performance. From accessory materials for face shields and medical devices, to protective helmets for hospital workers, law enforcement and military, to support layers for filtration and Reverse Osmosis (RO) applications for clean drinking water - and much more, we are proud to serve customers who make a world of difference in the markets they operate in and the products they improve.
We have an opportunity for a Senior Buyer in our Advanced Materials and Structures business.
The Senior Buyer reports to the Purchasing Manager. The Senior Buyer is accountable for the application of local sourcing/purchasing plans on defined segments in compliance with the Purchasing strategy cascaded by the Purchasing Manager. This position is the voice of purchase strategy at the local level and in front of the suppliers and is accountable for local site purchases/items/suppliers. This position follows all Global guidelines, safety plans, policies, ethics, and procedures and is a key member of the organization to raise new ideas, synergies, and opportunities which drive deflation and cost avoidance.
Primary Responsibilities:
Defining and leading the development & execution of the local sourcing strategies that delivers a competitive advantage driving the strategic supplier initiatives.
Leading projects to obtain results and cost savings goals through collaboration with other key stake holder groups.
Markets and benchmarks data for the industry and is sought out for advice and counsel. Track market developments and price trends that may have a significant impact on Operations to allow for minimization or optimization of the effects of these changes.
Ensure sourcing optimization and overall supplier performance by performing root cause analysis and resolution of supplier corrective actions.
Develop positive relationships with key suppliers to keep abreast of better utilization of materials, delivery practices, and innovative ideas to improve operations. Meets with suppliers and account representatives, negotiating rates, updating approved supplier list and general supplier records, alongside finalizing supplier ratings. Secure supply through alternative sourcing and maintaining qualified supplier for all critical items.
Manage buying processes, ensuring requirements for quality, on-time delivery and pricing is achieved.
Mitigate delivery delays to production by tracking and reporting all materials shortages and report to management any delays.
Participate in daily management meetings, as applicable.
Proactively manage inventory planning, including optimization of safety stock levels.
Sourcing, negotiating, and selecting new materials and suppliers resulting in contract approvals.
Conduct audits of critical suppliers.
Continuously improve the quality of products and services through a zero defect goal so as to exceed the expectations of our customers. Maintain Quality Management System requirements. Lead the material rejection and claims process for non-conforming products.
Ensure that financial requirements such as requisition approvals and capital spending requirements are met through the purchasing process.
Driving improvements in sourcing processes including escalations due to delivery/quality issues, invoicing/payables issues, and database management.
Uses interpersonal skills to engage and motivate others to accomplish goals.
Ability to share knowledge and guidance in developing other team members.
Ability to travel up to 15%.
Additional duties as assigned.
Education/Certifications:
Bachelor's Degree in related field with 7 plus years of work experience in sourcing or procurement or a combination of education and experience.
Required Skills:
Good commercial awareness and business acumen, with strong negotiation skills and the ability to build effective relationships and develop trust with suppliers, and stakeholders.
Strong written and verbal communication and presentation skills.
Knowledge of purchasing, contracts, negotiations, and logistics.
Resourceful, creative, and innovative in problem solving and the ability to work in a matrixed organization.
Learns from experience and uses knowledge to source the best practices.
Ability to prioritize and organize activity with lean efficiency.
Experience in ERP systems and strong computer skills.
Strong analytical thinking and decision-making abilities.
Utilizes interpersonal skills to engage, motivate and influence others.
Note: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the incumbent. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of this position.
An Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or other protected status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.
SWM International is committed to help individuals with disabilities participate in the workforce, and ensure equal opportunity to compete for jobs. If you require an accommodation to submit a resume for positions at SWM, please email our Talent Acquisition Team at [emailprotected]
