Associate Buyer

Rehlko•Kohler, WI

12d•Hybrid

About The Position

As an Associate Buyer, and under the general supervision of the Sr. Manager of Procurement—within the guidelines of Company policies, procedures, controls, and objectives—you will initiate contact with a wide variety of suppliers to obtain products that meet Rehlko specifications. You will conduct sourcing events evaluating total cost of ownership, availability, lead time, and quality to secure a competitive advantage for Rehlko and its customers. Business will be awarded to suppliers based on financial soundness, technical proficiency, ethical integrity, and their ability to meet Rehlko’s needs for quality products and services at the least total cost. Additionally, you will maintain supplier relationships, drive supplier performance, and provide assistance to material schedulers when needed to support supplier delivery performance. This is a hybrid role based in Kohler, Wisconsin, requiring on‑site work 2–3 days per week.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited Supply Chain, Business or Engineering Program or bachelor’s degree in a related field.
Applicants must be authorized to work in the US without requiring sponsorship now or in the future.

Nice To Haves

Manufacturing background a plus.

Responsibilities

Develop an efficient supply base capable of achieving Divisional goals of quality, delivery and pricing through supplier visits, trade shows, personal interviews, telephone, and written correspondence both nationally and globally.
Responsible for creating and maintaining an efficient and effective supplier relationship with the supply base.
Actively initiate cost reduction programs and work with suppliers, Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality and Materials functions for successful implementation.
Provide solutions, alternatives, and ideas to improve commodity group.
Knowledge of leading-edge trends in market and industry, taking initiative to undertake improvement opportunities.
Sets spend-level strategies for business unit.
Skilled in identifying and implementing continuous improvement opportunities within the company and the supply base.
Leverage knowledge of the industry and how the supply base can influence Rehlko products including changes in technology, product validation and global factors affecting component availability.
Request and review quotations for new and existing components.
Consult with Engineering and Supplier Quality regarding specification deviations.
Recommend alternative materials or methods based on knowledge of market availability.
Manage New Product Development projects within the Associate Buyers category responsibility.
Work with the Materials Department and Suppliers to develop and maintain production and support inventory programs.
Use sound decision making principles in conducting business which affects price variance, inventory levels, and quality levels.
Write, analyze, and issue various weekly, monthly, and annual reports and status updates.
Establish and maintain supplier stocking programs.
Maintain standard cost files.
Review all Engineering Notifications and drawings covering areas of responsibility.