Senior Paper Supply Chain Strategist

Japs-Olson; Minnesota; On-site; USD 90,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Japs-Olson (JO) seeks a Senior Supply Chain Specialist to lead paper procurement for high-volume printing operations in Minnesota. You will negotiate with mills and suppliers, manage ERP purchase orders, and collaborate with production and finance to ensure supply continuity and cost savings.

This role demands 4+ years in procurement, a related bachelor’s degree, and strong analytical, negotiation, and communication skills to drive supplier performance and strategic initiatives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, business, or related field or equivalent experience.
• 4+ years of experience in procurement or supply chain, preferably in a manufacturing or print-related environment.
• Strong knowledge of paper grades, specifications, and sourcing channels.
• Proven negotiation and vendor management skills.
• Proficiency in ERP systems and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Commitment to continuous improvement and cross-functional collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Lead procurement activities for paper and other key raw materials, ensuring alignment with production schedules and inventory targets.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with paper mills, merchants, and other suppliers to ensure reliable supply and favorable terms.
• Monitor market trends, pricing, and availability of paper products to inform purchasing decisions and mitigate risk.
• Negotiate contracts and pricing agreements to drive cost savings and secure supply continuity.
• Collaborate with internal teams, including production, scheduling, and finance, to forecast material needs and resolve supply issues.
• Work closely with purchasing associates and be a resource for daily questions.
• Manage and optimize purchase orders in the ERP system, ensuring accuracy in pricing, quantities, and delivery timelines.
• Support the Director of Supply Chain in executing strategic initiatives and continuous improvement projects.
• Analyze supplier performance and contribute to vendor scorecard evaluations.
• Participate in sustainability and ethical sourcing initiatives.
• Lead FSC certification efforts internally and coordinate audits with FSC.
• Lead major purchasing activities, with a primary focus on paper, identifying cost savings through inventory management, supplier negotiations, pricing, payment terms, and purchasing strategies.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, ISO standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Additional duties as assigned.

Skills

Negotiation

Vendor management

Analytical skills

Organizational skills

Communication

ERP systems

Microsoft Office

Education

Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, business, or related field

Tools

ERP systems

Microsoft Office

Excel

Job description

Japs-Olson (JO) seeks a Senior Supply Chain Specialist to lead paper procurement for high-volume printing operations in Minnesota. You will negotiate with mills and suppliers, manage ERP purchase orders, and collaborate with production and finance to ensure supply continuity and cost savings.

This role demands 4+ years in procurement, a related bachelor’s degree, and strong analytical, negotiation, and communication skills to drive supplier performance and strategic initiatives.