Senior Buyer

Red Rover Recruitment; Ontario; On-site; CAD 75,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading contract manufacturer is seeking a Senior Buyer to manage sourcing and procurement of packaging materials. The role involves developing sourcing strategies, establishing supplier relationships, and contributing to sustainability initiatives. The ideal candidate has over 5 years of experience in procurement, particularly in packaging, and holds a relevant bachelor's degree. This position offers a chance to make a significant impact in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in procurement with a focus on packaging.
• Knowledge of packaging materials and manufacturing processes.
• Experience with sustainability initiatives in packaging is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement sourcing strategies for packaging materials.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers.
• Negotiate contracts and monitor supplier performance.

Skills

Strategic sourcing

Negotiation skills

Supplier relationship management

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in supply chain management

Engineering degree (packaging preferred)

Tools

ERP systems

Microsoft Office

Job description

Our client, a leading contract manufacturer in the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industry, partners with some of the world’s most recognizable brands. They are seeking a Senior Buyer to join their dynamic supply chain team.

This critical role will focus on sourcing and managing a wide range of packaging materials, including rigid plastics, spray bottles, blister packs, cardboard boxes, and other packaging formats essential to their operations. As the company is experiencing rapid growth and expects to double in size over the next few years, this position offers a unique opportunity for an experienced professional to contribute significantly to their success.

If you are a strategic thinker with a strong background in procurement and supply chain management, particularly in packaging, this is a fantastic opportunity to join a fast-paced environment where your impact will be visible and valued.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Sourcing & Procurement: Develop and implement sourcing strategies for packaging materials, including bottles, caps, closures, and rigid plastics. Identify and evaluate suppliers, ensuring competitive pricing, reliable supply, and adherence to quality standards. Conduct total cost of ownership (TCO) analysis to guide procurement decisions.
• Help maintain buying and orders for our Michigan facility as directed by Deb Uherek.
• Supplier Relationship Management: Establish and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers to ensure alignment with organizational goals.
• Negotiate contracts, including pricing, terms, and delivery schedules, to achieve optimal value. Monitor supplier performance through KPIs and manage corrective actions where necessary.
• Sustainability Initiatives: Collaborate with internal teams and suppliers to integrate sustainable and recyclable materials into packaging solutions.
• Stay updated on industry trends in environmentally friendly packaging materials and innovations.
• Cost Management & Budget Oversight: Identify cost-saving opportunities and implement strategies to reduce overall packaging spend. Manage and monitor the procurement budget for packaging materials.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with engineering, production, and quality assurance teams to ensure packaging materials meet technical and operational requirements.
• Facilitate new product launches by securing necessary packaging materials within project timelines.
• Market Analysis: Conduct market research to stay informed of trends, raw material costs, and industry developments impacting rigid plastics and packaging materials.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in supply chain management, Engineering (packaging preferred)
• 5+ years of experience in procurement, with a focus on packaging, bottles, or rigid plastics.
• Strong negotiation skills with a proven ability to secure favorable contracts.
• Knowledge of packaging materials, manufacturing processes, and industry standards.
• Experience with sustainability initiatives in packaging is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in procurement systems and tools, including ERP systems and Microsoft Office.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with experience working in crossfunctional teams.