Strategic Buyer & Inventory Planner

LifeWork Search; Akron (OH); On-site; USD 52,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

LifeWork Search is seeking a Buyer to ensure product availability through effective purchasing, supplier management, and inventory planning. You will collaborate with operations, sales, and suppliers to balance service levels and inventory investment.

The ideal candidate has 2+ years in purchasing with strong Excel/Office skills and a proven ability to analyze data, negotiate terms, and manage supplier performance.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of purchasing, procurement, or buying experience.
• Strong Excel and Microsoft Office skills.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and time management abilities.
• Ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong analytical skills with high attention to detail.
• ERP experience preferred.
• Distribution, wholesale, manufacturing, or industrial purchasing experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Manage purchase orders to support customer demand and inventory requirements.
• Maintain appropriate inventory levels while supporting inventory performance goals.
• Develop and maintain supplier relationships to improve service, quality, and cost.
• Negotiate pricing, lead times, and other commercial terms with suppliers.
• Monitor supplier performance and expedite critical orders when necessary.
• Maintain purchasing and item master data including pricing, lead times, and order quantities.
• Partner with cross-functional teams to resolve supply challenges and improve product availability.
• Track purchasing metrics and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.

Skills

Purchasing experience

Excel

Office skills

Organization & time management

Prioritization

Analytical skills

ERP experience

Industry purchasing experience

Tools

Microsoft Excel

ERP systems

Microsoft Office

Job description

LifeWork Search is seeking a Buyer to ensure product availability through effective purchasing, supplier management, and inventory planning. You will collaborate with operations, sales, and suppliers to balance service levels and inventory investment.

The ideal candidate has 2+ years in purchasing with strong Excel/Office skills and a proven ability to analyze data, negotiate terms, and manage supplier performance.