Purchasing Category Specialist, Fabrication

Blue Bird Corporation•Fort Valley, GA

55d•Onsite

About The Position

Reporting to the Purchasing Manager, this role is responsible for managing the procurement process to ensure the timely acquisition of goods and services. This position requires a keen eye for detail, strong negotiation skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with internal stakeholders and external suppliers. The Purchasing Category Specialist is responsible for sourcing suppliers, negotiating contracts, managing inventory levels, and ensuring compliance with organizational policies and relevant regulations. This role is crucial in optimizing costs, mitigating risks, and maintaining efficient supply chain operations.

Requirements

Knowledge of the commercial truck/automotive market
Ability to accomplish basic financial analysis, supplier selection, and approval
Excellent written and oral communication skills
Ability to perform in high-stress, fast-paced environment
Working technical knowledge of the goods or services to be purchased
Proficiency in MS Office applications
Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or a related field; or relative experience
2 years relevant experience in procurement or supply chain
3-5 years’ experience in procurement or supply chain w/o degree

Nice To Haves

Chassis/suspension experience, preferred
Technical or Engineering background
Ability to anticipate and understand customer needs and provide guidance
Excellent interpersonal and customer relationship skills to handle difficult and sensitive matters
Strong project management skills. Exposure to difficult or complex projects a plus
Ability to influence stakeholders
Effective communication and ability to communicate complex compensation details in a clear manner
Flexible workspaces and work hours that help you unleash the best you
Working in a collaborative team and balancing the needs of individual stakeholders while delivering corporate objectives.

Responsibilities

Development and selection of suppliers, including international sourcing
Cost control, change control, and parts and service support for goods and services procured
Manage assigned commodities and supply chain strategy
Implement contracting strategies and contracts for goods or services
Responsible for support, implementation, and administration of supply agreements
Ensure all contract administration procedures are followed and executed in a professional manner
Resolve CSR and STR cases in an expedited manner
Perform cost analysis and assess impacts of supplier cost files
Assist in purchasing administrative duties (examples, however, not an all-inclusive list below):
LN part set-up, PDR creation, and enter approved cost changes
LN part updates, PMO/PLM assistance/liaison to OE engineering
Performs other related duties as assigned.