Product Line Buyer

Power Distributors LLC•Charlotte, NC

About The Position

Power Distributors, LLC is the Sales and Distribution arm for Briggs and Stratton, the leading manufacturer of air-cooled gasoline engines and parts for outdoor power equipment. Briggs and Stratton engines are integrated into products catering to both consumer and industrial/commercial markets. We are also responsible for the sales and marketing of Briggs and Stratton Power consumer & commercial generators and pressure washers. Power Distributors also distributes Oregon Equipment Parts, Oregon Forestry products and several other allied parts lines. Overview The Buyer/Planner plays a critical role on the Inventory Management team, owning purchasing execution and inventory planning for assigned product lines. This position is responsible for ensuring optimal inventory availability while supporting company objectives for service, margin, and turns. The role partners closely with Warehousing Operations, Sales, Marketing, and suppliers to drive efficient, data-driven supply chain outcomes. All purchasing and planning activities are performed in accordance with Power Distributors’ policies, procedures, and inventory strategies.

Requirements

5+ years of experience in purchasing, planning, or supply chain operations
Demonstrated success managing cost performance, supply/demand forecasting, and distribution execution across multiple product lines and suppliers
Strong knowledge of end to end supply chain and logistics processes
Proven ability to quickly establish credibility and collaborate effectively across warehouse operations and functional teams
Sound judgment and decision making aligned with company size, scope, and growth objectives
Willingness to travel up to 5% as needed
Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business Administration, Logistics, or a related field (preferred)
Strong applied knowledge of inventory management, demand forecasting, supply planning, transportation, and warehousing
Advanced analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data and translate insights into actionable plans
Solid understanding of inventory principles including demand variability, lead times, safety stock, and replenishment strategies
Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to engage stakeholders at all levels of the organization
Highly organized and detail oriented with strong planning, prioritization, and project management capabilities
Proven ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast paced environment
Strong interpersonal skills with a demonstrated ability to build effective internal and external partnerships
Familiarity with industry best practices and emerging supply chain trends
Proficient in Microsoft Excel, including pivot tables and macros
Experience working with inventory management systems and ERP platforms; NetSuite experience is a plus

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business Administration, Logistics, or a related field (preferred)

Responsibilities

Partner with the Inventory Management Analyst to establish and maintain optimal inventory levels based on demand forecasts, variability, lead times, and business priorities
Create, manage, and maintain purchase orders; communicate delivery schedules and proactively expedite material as needed
Monitor inventory health and manage obsolescence, overstock, and vendor returns
Resolve purchase order discrepancies and payment issues in coordination with Finance and suppliers
Track supplier performance related to sourcing, delivery, quality, and service; escalate issues to the Vice President of Inventory Management and Planning
Collaborate with suppliers to capture all eligible rebates and support defined inventory turns strategies
Actively participate in inventory management best practices and continuous improvement initiatives across the distribution network
Partner with receiving and inventory clerks to ensure timely, accurate receipt of inventory into the ERP system
Prepare and present analysis during weekly and monthly in season business review meetings, highlighting risks, opportunities, and recommended actions
Produce ad hoc reporting to support decision making and address inventory, demand, and supply challenges
Support cross functional projects and initiatives as needed