The Buyer is responsible for sourcing, purchasing, and managing materials, products, and services needed to support business operations. The Buyer owns supplier performance, negotiates pricing and terms, conducts cost and commodity analysis, develops supplier strategies, resolves escalated supplier issues and drives cost savings. This role works closely with suppliers and internal stakeholders to ensure products are purchased at the best value while meeting quality, delivery, and inventory requirements.Manage supplier performance related to delivery, capacity, quality, and invoicing issues; develop and execute corrective action plans. Utilize critical thinking, data analysis, and root cause problem-solving methodologies to develop and execute effective supplier recovery and improvement plansDrive inventory optimization and long-term sourcing strategies by conducting comprehensive cost analysis and participate in demand forecasting for assigned commoditiesLead supplier negotiations to achieve optimal cost, quality, and delivery outcomesCollaborate with Operations, Sales, Inventory Management, and Finance to develop sourcing strategies, evaluate supplier capabilities, and obtain competitive quotesIdentify and qualify new suppliers to improve competitiveness, mitigate risk, and support business needsEscalate and resolve supply chain issues that may negatively impact operations, customer service, inventory levels, or business performanceReview and process purchase and transfer requirements to support inventory and operational needsManage purchase orders and resolve delivery, pricing, and invoicing discrepanciesBuild and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders to drive alignment, improve communication, and support operational excellenceSupport continuous improvement initiativesPerform other duties as assignedAssociate’s degree in Purchasing/Supply Chain Management or equivalent or three to five years of progressive Purchasing/Buying experienceStrong organizational skills with the ability to work independently and manage prioritiesExcellent negotiation, verbal, and written communication skillsStrong customer-service focus when collaborating with internal and external stakeholdersProven ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects, deadlines, and competing demandsAdvanced proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel, with strong analytical and data interpretation skillsStrong critical-thinking and problem-solving abilitiesProject management skills with a demonstrated ability to plan, organize, and execute initiativesExceptional attention to detail with a proactive, self-motivated approach to workKnowledge of fluid power products or industrial supplies a plusProphet21 or familiarity with procurement-based systems preferredISM certification (CPSM, CPSD, CPM, or APSM) a plusTravel up to 10% for supplier visits