Strategic MRO & Packaging Buyer/Planner

Superior Essex Inc.; Fort Wayne (IN); On-site; USD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Superior Essex Inc. is seeking a Buyer/Planner to manage strategic sourcing, procurement, and inventory planning for MRO and packaging to support North American facilities, including Fort Wayne. The role partners with plant operations, maintenance, and corporate sourcing to ensure supply continuity and cost discipline.

The candidate will lead RFQs, negotiate terms, maintain policy compliance, and drive cost savings while balancing responsiveness with strategic execution across sites.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED equivalent or higher, bachelor’s degree on related field preferred.
• 3–5 years of experience in procurement, and planning within a manufacturing environment.
• Experience in MRO procurement and packaging materials within a manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Office (Excel, Power BI a plus).
• Strong negotiation, analytical, and vendor management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast paced manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead sourcing activities for MRO and packaging categories, ensuring alignment with corporate strategies.
• Conduct RFQs, evaluate supplier bids, and negotiate pricing, terms, and service levels.
• Validate requisitions for compliance with MRO Purchasing Policy prior to approval.
• Ensure purchase order accuracy and alignment with approved specifications and all applicable policies
• Maintain proactive communication with Corporate Sourcing and Supply Chain regarding risks, gaps, or supplier performance issues.
• Escalate urgent procurement situations requiring expedited approval or action.
• Develop project charters for assigned initiatives, including goals, KPIs, and timelines.
• Assuring that the plant(s) consistently sources from the most competitive suppliers and secures cost‑efficient purchasing outcomes.

Skills

Negotiation

Analytical

Vendor management

Data-driven decisions

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree

High school diploma or GED

Tools

SAP

Oracle

Microsoft Office

Power BI

Job description

Superior Essex Inc. is seeking a Buyer/Planner to manage strategic sourcing, procurement, and inventory planning for MRO and packaging to support North American facilities, including Fort Wayne. The role partners with plant operations, maintenance, and corporate sourcing to ensure supply continuity and cost discipline.

The candidate will lead RFQs, negotiate terms, maintain policy compliance, and drive cost savings while balancing responsiveness with strategic execution across sites.