Senior Buyer

Royal Brass and Hose; Knoxville (TN); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in mobile equipment distribution seeks a Senior Buyer to manage procurement processes, mentor junior staff, and ensure effective inventory management. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in supply chain management and excellent negotiation skills. Join a team that values employee ownership and offers a competitive benefits package.

Benefits

401K match

Health insurance

Vision insurance

Dental insurance

Voluntary group insurance

Company profit sharing

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in procurement or a related role.
• Strong understanding of warehouse operations and inventory management principles.

Responsibilities

• Assist, mentor, and develop other Buyers / Associate Buyers.
• Source and negotiate contracts with vendors.
• Monitor inventory levels to minimize Back Orders and overstocking.

Skills

Analytical Skills

Negotiation Skills

Communication Skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in business administration

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

ERP

MRP

Warehouse Management Software

Job description

Since 1949 Royal Brass and Hose has been a distributor of high-quality mobile equipment products like hydraulic and pneumatic parts, hoses, fittings, fasteners, adapters, and more. Our solutions, expertise and service excellence empower customer success.

We are employee-owned! Royal Brass and Hose has been an ESOP since 2018. In addition, we offer a competitive benefits package including 401K match, health, vision and dental insurance, voluntary group insurance and company profit sharing.

Job purpose

The Senior Buyer uses a combination of system tools, including the Royal Brass and Hose computer systems, developed product knowledge, warehouse physical inventory, vendor relationships and product knowledge, and company policies to: Maintain Data Integrity, Manage Inventory Levels, Maintain or Reduce Cost, Ensure On-Time Delivery, Effectively Communicate. Assist, Mentor, and develop other Buyers / Associate Buyers in the Purchasing Department.

Essential Job Functions

Responsibilities

• Procurement:
• Provide assistance and direction to Buyers / Associate Buyers in daily procurement functions to promote their development and ensure the success of the purchasing department.
• Issue accurate and complete Purchase Orders with sufficient lead time to meet need by date.
• Maintain Purchase Orders; keep POs updated with current information (due dates, price changes, quantity changes)
• Provide requisite lead time on Purchase Order when issued unless an expedited due date is agreed upon by the supplier.
• Analyze sales data, usage, and forecasts to determine inventory needs.
• Source and negotiate contracts with vendors for the purchase of materials and supplies.
• Inventory Management:
• Monitor inventory levels to minimize Back Orders and overstocking.
• Coordinate with AP and receiving to ensure accuracy and timely product availability.
• Maintains strong, positive relationships with key vendors.
• Working knowledge of supplier policies, terms, and conditions.
• Proactively addresses and resolves any supplier issues.
• Cost Control:
• Securing the best possible pricing on purchases.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings in procurement processes.
• Product Returns to Supplier

Other Duties and Responsibilities

• Communication and Relationship Building:
• Maintain strong relationships with vendors to ensure clear communication and secure favorable pricing and terms.
• Collaborate with warehouse staff, management, and other departments to ensure smooth procurement processes.
• Provide updates and reports on purchasing activities and cost-saving initiatives.
• Problem-Solving:
• Proactively identify and resolve issues to ensure smooth operations.
• Any other task assigned by your manager.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Supply Chain Management, or a related field Required
• Minimum 5 years of experience in procurement or a related role.
• Strong understanding of warehouse operations and inventory management principles.
• Excellent analytical and negotiation skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, ERP, MRP, and warehouse management software (WMS).
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills.
• Knowledge of logistics and transportation management.
• Knowledge of international trade regulations (for import/export).