Lead Buyer - Indirect

XNRGY Climate Systems•Longueuil, QC

About The Position

We are seeking a highly focused Lead Buyer to drive day-to-day procurement activities and ensure seamless purchase order execution within a fast-paced manufacturing environment. The Lead Buyer plays a critical role in translating planning requirements into accurate and timely purchase orders while maintaining strong supplier communication and resolving operational issues. This role is primarily tactical and execution-driven, with ownership of PO lifecycle management, supplier follow-ups, and issue resolution. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, proactive, and capable of handling high transaction volumes while maintaining accuracy and meeting strict SLAs.

Requirements

3+ years of experience with a master’s degree in industrial engineering / engineering management / any relevant field (or) 5+ years of relevant experience in the field of Manufacturing (HVAC /Automotive/Powersports/Aerospace/relevant field)
Strong proficiency in Excel
Strong knowledge of ERP/MRP systems
Results driven, and ability to work in an agile environment, with strong problem-solving skills, critical thinking, business acumen, mitigation planning, and conflict management.
Effective communication skills in English, with the ability to engage with vendors locally and internationally.

Nice To Haves

PowerBi knowledge preferred
familiarity with procurement reporting tools
EPICOR is preferred

Responsibilities

Create, validate, and release Purchase Orders (POs) in alignment with planning requirements.
Ensure accuracy of PO data, including Quantities; Pricing; Delivery dates.
Maintain full ownership of the PO lifecycle from creation to delivery closure.
Act as the primary point of contact for assigned suppliers.
Drive supplier acknowledgments, confirmations, and on-time delivery commitments.
Proactively follow up on open orders to ensure adherence to delivery schedules.
Ensure POs are placed within defined SLAs and aligned with production timelines.
Track and expedite critical orders to prevent supply disruptions.
Escalate risks proactively to the Procurement Manager.
Identify and resolve operational issues including: Delivery delays, Quantity mismatches, Pricing discrepancies, Open invoice issues.
Collaborate with internal stakeholders and suppliers to close issues efficiently.
Work closely with: Material Planning team (demand and schedule alignment), Procurement Manager (execution priorities and escalations), Finance (invoice and payment issues).
Ensure alignment between planning signals and procurement execution.
Support the execution of Engineering Change Notices (ECNs) by updating POs and coordinating with suppliers.
Ensure timely transition of materials to avoid excess or obsolete inventory.
Maintain accurate system data within ERP/MRP systems.
Support reporting on: PO status, Supplier performance, Open orders and risks.
Contribute to continuous improvement of data quality and reporting accuracy.