Purchasing Manager

Walker Products Inc.•Wildwood, MO

About The Position

The Purchasing Manager will be responsible for managing the procurement activities for Walker Products, ensuring the timely and cost-effective acquisition of high-quality materials and services necessary for the production and distribution of automotive aftermarket products. This role requires a strategic thinker with excellent negotiation skills, a strong understanding of the automotive industry, and the ability to build and maintain relationships with suppliers.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in purchasing or procurement, preferably within the automotive aftermarket industry.
Proven experience in supplier negotiation and contract management.
Strong understanding of supply chain management principles and practices.
Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
Proficiency in procurement software and Microsoft Office Suite.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build effective relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
Exceptional organizational and time management skills.

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree or certifications (such as CPM or CPSM) are a plus.

Responsibilities

Procurement Strategy Development
Develop and implement comprehensive procurement strategies that align with company goals and objectives.
Continuously evaluate and improve purchasing processes to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
Supplier Management
Identify, evaluate, and select suppliers based on quality, cost, and reliability criteria.
Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers to ensure long-term partnerships.
Monitor supplier performance and address any issues or discrepancies promptly.
Cost Management
Negotiate contracts and pricing agreements with suppliers to secure the best possible terms.
Monitor market trends and pricing to identify opportunities for cost savings.
Implement cost control measures and track purchasing expenditures to ensure budget adherence.
Inventory Management
Coordinate with production and inventory management teams to ensure optimal inventory levels.
Forecast demand for materials and adjust purchasing plans accordingly.
Implement and manage inventory control systems to minimize waste and overstock situations.
Quality Assurance
Ensure all purchased materials and services meet the company's quality standards and specifications.
Work closely with the quality control team to address any quality issues and implement corrective actions.
Compliance and Risk Management
Ensure all purchasing activities comply with legal and regulatory requirements.
Identify potential risks in the supply chain and develop mitigation strategies.
Team Leadership
Lead and mentor the purchasing team, providing guidance and support to achieve departmental goals.
Foster a collaborative and high-performance work environment.