Purchasing Manager

Natural Alternatives International•Carlsbad, CA

32d

About The Position

Since 1980, NAI has been a leader in nutritional health, bringing whole food-based supplements to a global population. NAI is a leading expert and manufacturer of dietary supplements, and we are involved in every facet of the industry, including research, development, manufacturing, marketing, and advocacy. As a company, we continue to grow with manufacturing locations in Vista and Carlsbad, CA. We are looking for seasoned and entry level candidates that are interested in working for global company with opportunities for growth, development, competitive pay, and benefits. Position Summary The Purchasing Manager is responsible for leading NAI's ingredient and packaging procurement activities, with a focus on strategic sourcing, supplier relationship management, and team development. This role requires deep industry knowledge of nutraceutical ingredients, the ability to negotiate competitive agreements, and the leadership to guide the Buyer team in executing timely and cost-effective purchasing decisions that support company growth

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, or related field; advanced degree or certifications (CPSM, CPIM) preferred.
7+ years of progressive procurement experience, including at least 3 years in a leadership/managerial role.
Deep knowledge of nutraceutical, food, or specialty ingredient supply chains - including rare/unique ingredient sources.
Demonstrated success in strategic sourcing, supplier negotiations, and cost optimization.
Experience with supplier qualification, stocking programs, and long-term agreements.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Highly analytical with expertise in cost analysis, supplier consolidation, and MOQ leverage.
Ability to analyze tariffs, duties, and trade regulations for impact on purchasing strategies.
Strong business acumen with proven ability to leverage industry relationships to benefit sourcing and new business opportunities.
Proficiency with ERP and procurement systems; BAAN and TraceGains experience a plus.
Advanced skills in Microsoft Excel; strong proficiency in Access, PowerPoint, and Word.
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment while driving process improvements.
Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills with a track record of developing high-performing teams.

Nice To Haves

advanced degree or certifications (CPSM, CPIM) preferred.
BAAN and TraceGains experience a plus.

Responsibilities

Manage and oversee daily procurement operations for raw materials, packaging, and services to support manufacturing schedules.
Develop and maintain a reliable base of suppliers while continuously identifying new sources for both common and rare ingredients to expand the company's network and ensure continuity of supply.
Apply strategic sourcing techniques, including supplier consolidation and combined purchasing, to optimize costs and achieve MOQ discounts.
Negotiate and propose supplier agreements, stocking programs, and long-term supply arrangements favorable to NAI.
Lead the Fast Track Quote process by leveraging ingredient knowledge and market intelligence to provide accurate and timely cost estimates.
Use industry contacts and networks to support new business opportunities and customer projects.
Utilize industry tools (e.g., TraceGains) to manage supplier compliance, documentation, and performance scoring.
Develop and maintain supplier scorecards with KPIs and conduct Quarterly Business Reviews.
Collaborate with Finance to monitor and explain purchase price variances, support accurate budgeting, and forecast future cost trends.
Manage inbound freight budgets, continuously seeking to reduce costs.
Assess and communicate tariff and trade impacts by country to ensure accurate landed cost forecasting.
Leverage industry contacts and networks to identify opportunities that support new business development.
Partner cross-functionally with Planning, QA/QC, R&D, and Finance to ensure alignment on cost, quality, and timelines.
Provide coaching, feedback, and performance reviews to Buyer Team members, fostering a culture of teamwork, accountability, and professional growth.
Establish policies, procedures, and systems to support continuous improvement in purchasing, inventory, and distribution.
Ensure compliance with company purchasing policies, quality standards, and regulatory requirements.
Perform other duties as assigned to support Purchasing, Operations, or Supply Chain priorities.