Strategic Buyer - Cost-Driven Supplier Partnerships

WaterFurnace International, Inc.; Fort Wayne (IN); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

WaterFurnace International, Inc. is seeking a seasoned Buyer to shape commodity strategies, build and maintain supplier relationships, and negotiate cost structures.

You will manage part changes with Engineering and Product Management and mentor the Materials Planner to ensure timely delivery and optimal inventory levels. The role focuses on reducing component costs, managing inventory turns, and coordinating with cross-functional teams to support production and business goals.

Qualifications

• Understanding of technical attributes on commodity components.
• Proficiency in related software applications and methodologies.
• Excellent verbal and written communication, with proven negotiation skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent time management with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Thorough understanding of materials and supplies used in the company.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.

Responsibilities

• Reduce component cost through competitive quoting from the supply base.
• Daily review of inventory levels for commodity responsibilities.
• Optimize supplier shipment lot sizes to balance costs and maximize inventory turns.
• Adapt reporting methods to optimize information transfer with suppliers to fully leverage data.
• Manage and process the product life cycle by quoting new parts, communicating revision changes, and managing obsolescence.
• Draft contracts to be reviewed by senior leaders, the supplier, and legal to include all details of the negotiation.
• Lead/mentor materials planner to ensure on-time delivery and optimal inventory levels.

Skills

Negotiation skills

Communication skills

Analytical thinking

Time management

Organizational skills

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in related field

5+ years of Buyer experience

Epicor ERP/MRP experience preferred

Supply Chain Management Certificate

Production and Inventory Management Cert

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Epicor ERP/MRP system

Job description

WaterFurnace International, Inc. is seeking a seasoned Buyer to shape commodity strategies, build and maintain supplier relationships, and negotiate cost structures.

You will manage part changes with Engineering and Product Management and mentor the Materials Planner to ensure timely delivery and optimal inventory levels. The role focuses on reducing component costs, managing inventory turns, and coordinating with cross-functional teams to support production and business goals.