Purchasing Manager

CP Kelco - Shuqualak, MS

Full-time - Mid Level

Shuqualak, MS

1,001-5,000 employees

Chemical Manufacturing

About the position

The Purchasing Manager at J.M. Huber Corporation plays a critical role in ensuring the efficient procurement of raw materials, supplies, and services necessary for the operations group. This position requires strong leadership and planning skills to manage the purchasing process effectively, ensuring timely delivery while maintaining optimal inventory levels. The Purchasing Manager will initiate purchases based on approved requisitions, verify requisition accuracy, and consult with the Plant Manager on high-cost or priority items. The role involves arranging transportation, issuing purchase orders, and maintaining accurate records within the department. In addition to managing the purchasing process, the Purchasing Manager will participate in cost-saving initiatives and collaborate with other plant locations to eliminate redundancy and leverage purchasing power. This includes leading teams to consolidate multi-plant purchases for greater efficiency. The manager will also be responsible for communicating order and delivery information to requisitioners, addressing issues with vendors regarding late or incorrect shipments, and working closely with Accounts Payables to ensure accurate payment of invoices. The role requires the Purchasing Manager to assist requisitioners in defining specifications for new items or services, select and investigate vendors, and maintain an approved supplier list. The manager will develop supplier relationships, negotiate contracts, and monitor contractor performance to ensure compliance with agreements. Additionally, the Purchasing Manager will initiate capital expenditure requests, track appropriations, and manage disposal records for surplus materials. Leadership and development of department personnel are also key responsibilities, ensuring that team members are trained effectively and prepared for advancement within the organization.

Responsibilities

• Initiates purchases for materials, supplies, and services upon request of approved requisitions.
• Checks for requisition accuracy, resolves questionable information, and consults with the Plant Manager on high-cost items.
• Arranges transportation and best method of FOB point, and issues purchase orders.
• Administers follow-up and ensures proper records are maintained within the department.
• Oversees preparation of purchase orders, distribution of bids and inquiries, receipt of quotations, approval of invoices, and negotiations.
• Participates in HEW cost-saving initiatives and collaborates with other plant locations to eliminate redundancy.
• Leads or participates on teams to combine/consolidate multi-plant purchases for greater purchasing leverage.
• Ensures follow-up information concerning orders and delivery dates is communicated to the requisitioner.
• Contacts vendors regarding late, rescheduled, or incorrect shipments.
• Works with Accounts Payables regarding payment of invoices and maintains accurate records of freight rates and variances.
• Assists requisitioners in defining specifications for new items or services.
• Selects and investigates vendors to ensure they meet company standards and purchasing requirements.
• Maintains an approved supplier list and recommends additions and deletions to it.
• Initiates contacts with supply sources and serves as plant liaison between requisitioner and vendors.
• Interviews vendor representatives to maintain awareness of price and product changes.
• Develops supplier relationships through needs, communications, and performance feedback.
• Adjusts contracts and orders as necessary and assures legality of overrides or moral obligations.
• Negotiates settlements for discrepancies in specifications and price.
• Initiates capital expenditure requests and tracks plant capital expenditure appropriations.
• Approves invoices for payment after reconciling with the original purchase order.
• Initiates credit claims for discrepancies in negotiated prices or quality.
• Receives, prepares, and processes disposal records for surplus and obsolete materials and equipment.
• Provides direction and leadership for department personnel development and training.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree preferred.
• 3-5 years of experience in Wood Products or manufacturing preferred.
• Excellent communication skills (presentation, written, oral).
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Project.
• Ability to organize time and set priorities to handle multiple functions effectively.
• Good background in procurement, computerized purchasing, and inventory systems.
• General knowledge of parts, supplies, raw materials, and tools.
• Managerial skills with the ability to lead teams.
• Knowledge of Federal and State regulations and company safety and environmental standards.
• Working knowledge of bids, contracts, accounts payable, inventory requirements, and purchasing functions.
• Understanding of operating materials required, production machines, and finished products.
• Ability to understand technical/mechanical specifications and drawings.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment to meet operational needs.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in supplier relationship management.
• Knowledge of cost-saving strategies in procurement.
• Familiarity with environmental sustainability practices in purchasing.

Benefits

• Annual discretionary bonus eligibility.
• Profit-sharing payout eligibility.
• Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Opportunities for professional and personal development.
• Inclusive workplace culture promoting core values and respect.