<p>The Buyer/Planner is responsible for the procurement of goods and services along with developing supplier relationships allowing for cost improvement and new product development opportunities. This person is also responsible for planning the supply side needs of the business to control inventory levels by collaborating with the Operations and Quality teams.</p> <p>Primary Functions</p> <p>Place, change, and expedite purchase orders and other buying contracts Leverage and maintain MRP planning parameters in company ERP system so that the ERP system can reliably make new purchase suggestions and change suggestions Regularly update supplier lead times, order multiples, and minimum order quantities by engaging suppliers throughout the year to make sure the most up to date information is known to the business Develop ideas and strategies to improve operational efficiency, add value, aid business performance and work towards a strategy of continuous improvement Ensure continuous supply of required goods and materials and communicate any supply problems which may pose a risk or impact on business operations Track performance and manage our suppliers to ensure they are staying within our expectations on quality, lead time and customer service. This includes supporting the regular Management Review activities for ISO. Identification and certification of new suppliers Develop collaborative relationships with our vendors and key partner suppliers. Participate in Quarterly Business Reviews with suppliers when needed. Research and evaluate areas of opportunity and reduce costs where possible Assist with cycle counting and inventory reconciliation, when needed. This would include supporting any physical inventory activities or external inventory audits. Assist the Purchasing Manager and/or Supply Chain Leadership in daily tasks Manage and process supplier invoices in a timely manner and work with Accounts Payable, when needed, to ensure timely payment of invoices Learn the operation and actively participate in the daily management meetings so there is knowledge of what is being procured, what products those particular materials go into, and what customers purchase those end products. Requires regular attendance to perform essential elements as contained herein between the assigned start and end times for work. Performs such individual assignments as management may direct. Establishes and maintains effective work relationships within the department, the Corporation and the community; and maintains the professional competence, knowledge and skill necessary for the satisfactory performance of all assigned responsibilities. Other duties as assigned</p> <p>Key Qualifications</p> <p>Highly skilled at building and maintaining effective and productive relationships with key stakeholders and suppliers Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced work environment Ability to negotiate deliveries, expedite material, and pricing, when possible. Must be detail oriented and organized Strong problem-solving skills, specifically critical thinking when faced with potential supply chain disruptions Computer competence including spreadsheet, database, and word processing Experience with EPICOR highly preferred</p>