Buyer/Planner

at  WAI Global

Join our team as a Buyer/Planner and play a crucial role in ensuring the seamless flow of materials for our production process! Leverage your expertise in supply chain management, vendor relations, and inventory optimization to drive cost efficiency and maintain uninterrupted operations. Apply now to contribute to our success and enhance your career in a dynamic, collaborative environment!

POSITION SUMMARY

The individual in this role plays a crucial role in the manufacturing and production process of a company. Their main responsibilities involve ensuring the timely availability of raw materials, components, and resources needed for the production of goods or services. They are responsible for coordinating with various internal teams and external suppliers to optimize production schedules, manage inventory levels, and maintain a smooth flow of materials throughout the production process. The individual in this role will ensure a seamless and continuous supply of production, packaging and shipping materials, while also meeting inventory and cost targets. In addition to the tactical aspects of procurement and inventory management, the incumbent will be responsible for maintaining and managing vendor relationships. This requires strong business acumen, negotiation skills, and the ability to develop and stay updated on supplier capabilities for the commodities under management. They will play a critical role in optimizing the procurement process, ensuring uninterrupted operations, and driving cost efficiency while maintaining strong supplier partnerships.

QUALIFICATIONS (Education, Experience, & Skills required)

• Bachelor’s degree, preferably in Supply Chain Management
• Minimum 3 years of experience in Purchasing or Planning; Experience with contract manufacturers preferred.
• Proficient in using Microsoft Office applications with advanced skills in Excel, Word, and Outlook and Power Point.
• Demonstrates the ability to design workflows and procedures, generate innovative solutions, identify and resolve issues promptly, and coordinate projects effectively.
• Exhibits professional experience working collaboratively in a team environment.
• Shows the capacity to generate creative solutions.
• Demonstrates skill in writing routine reports and correspondence.
• Possesses effective verbal communication skills, with the ability to address groups of customers or employees in an organization.
• Must possess excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Demonstrates a high level of accuracy and thoroughness in work.
• Displays diligence in completing tasks in a timely manner, utilizing effective time management skills.
• Maintains a strong focus on safety, adhering to safety and security procedure

• Material Planning: Analyzing production schedules and forecasts to determine the quantity and type of materials required for production. This involves creating purchase orders for raw materials and components and ensuring timely delivery.
• Inventory Management: Monitoring inventory levels and maintaining optimal stock levels to prevent shortages or excess inventory. This includes conducting regular stock checks and reconciling discrepancies.
• Supplier Management: Identifying and establishing relationships with reliable suppliers. Negotiating terms, pricing, and contracts to ensure the best value for the company. Create purchase orders (POs) and place orders with suppliers for material to arrive on-time to meet production needs.
• Production Scheduling: Collaborating with production managers and other relevant teams to develop production schedules that align with material availability and capacity constraints. Create production work orders (WOs) finished goods to arrive on-time to meet customer forecasted demand.
• Demand Forecasting: Collaborating with sales and marketing teams to understand demand trends and adjusting production plans accordingly.
• Quality Assurance: Ensuring that materials and products meet quality standards and coordinating with quality control teams to address any issues.
• Cost Control: Monitoring and managing production costs, including material costs, transportation costs, and inventory carrying costs.
• Risk Management: Identifying potential supply chain risks and developing strategies to mitigate them, such as backup suppliers or contingency plans.
• Data Analysis: Analyzing production and inventory data to identify trends, optimize processes, and improve efficiency.
• Documentation: Maintaining accurate records of purchases, inventory levels, and supplier performance.
• Continuous Improvement: Proactively identifying opportunities for process improvement and implementing best practices to enhance productivity and efficiency.
• Compliance: Ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and internal policies related to purchasing and production.
• Ensure timely responses to both internal and external customers.
• Ensure receipt of all purchase orders from vendors on time; promptly escalate any issues and monitor items that exceed the expected due date.
• Promote a collaborative work environment, encouraging effective communication and cross-training initiatives to enhance team productivity, versatility, and skill development.
• Undertakes additional responsibilities and tasks as directed by management.

QUALIFICATIONS (Education, Experience, & Skills required)

• Bachelor’s degree, preferably in Supply Chain Management
• Minimum 3 years of experience in Purchasing or Planning; Experience with contract manufacturers preferred.
• Proficient in using Microsoft Office applications with advanced skills in Excel, Word, and Outlook and Power Point.
• Demonstrates the ability to design workflows and procedures, generate innovative solutions, identify and resolve issues promptly, and coordinate projects effectively.
• Exhibits professional experience working collaboratively in a team environment.
• Shows the capacity to generate creative solutions.
• Demonstrates skill in writing routine reports and correspondence.
• Possesses effective verbal communication skills, with the ability to address groups of customers or employees in an organization.
• Must possess excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Demonstrates a high level of accuracy and thoroughness in work.
• Displays diligence in completing tasks in a timely manner, utilizing effective time management skills.
• Maintains a strong focus on safety, adhering to safety and security procedures