Buyer

Job DetailsJob Location: Headquarters Myerstown - Myerstown, PA 17067Position Type: Full TimeEducation Level: 4 Year Degree PreferredTravel Percentage: Up to 25%Job Shift: DayJob Category: Purchasing - ProcurementJOB SUMMARY This role is responsible for purchasing and managing acceptable levels of inventory.  This role will manage the category lost sales, and will approach this task with a continuous improvement mindset.  This position will develop and manage relationships with vendors and brokers.  This role will secure promotions and will be responsible for following up with bill backs to vendors.  This role will manage the forecast for items within category.  This role will be responsible to attain corporate goals for lost sales.  This role requires follow up on customer returns with vendors to secure credits; related, will inspect product in warehouse as necessary.   FUNCTIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES Responsible for annual spend up to 20M. Manages a SKU count of  1,000+ items. Orders product and special orders. Reviews invoices for payment as necessary.                                       Maintains acceptable levels of stock by utilizing the MRP/DRP system. Resolves invoice discrepancy or problems. Recommends secondary sources of supply for critical items. Annually reviews and evaluates outside vendors. Meets with vendors and negotiates product costs. Recommends new products and presents them for review. Communicates with other internal departments. Abides by purchasing policies and procedures. Keeps Purchasing Manager informed of important issues. Secures and evaluate quotes. Secures Purchasing Managers approval for vendor and product changes.   Some travel is required (vendor locations and trade shows etc.) JOB SUMMARY Responsible for sourcing, negotiating, and purchasing goods and services that support organizational operations. Ensures the timely acquisition of quality products at competitive prices while maintaining strong supplier relationships and compliance with procurement policies and procedures.   Functional Responsibilities:   Procurement & Purchasing Source and procure materials, products, equipment, and services in accordance with company policies and business requirements. Generate and manage purchase orders to ensure timely delivery of goods and services. Maintain optimal inventory levels while balancing cost, quality, and service requirements. Review and analyze purchase orders for accuracy and completeness. Supplier Management Develop and maintain productive relationships with suppliers and vendors. Solicit and evaluate supplier quotations, proposals, and bids. Negotiate pricing, payment terms, delivery schedules, and contract conditions to achieve the best value. Monitor supplier performance and address issues related to quality, delivery, and service. Collaborate with suppliers on assortment recommendations. Cost Management & Analysis Identify opportunities for cost savings and process improvements. Conduct market research to understand pricing trends and supply market conditions. Analyze purchasing data and spending patterns to support sourcing decisions. Assist in the development and execution of sourcing strategies. Inventory & Supply Chain Support Coordinate with internal stakeholders to forecast demand and ensure material availability. Monitor inventory levels and expedite orders when necessary to prevent supply disruptions. Collaborate with warehouse, operations, and planning teams to support production and business needs. Resolve supply shortages, delivery issues, and invoice discrepancies. Compliance & Documentation Ensure procurement activities comply with company policies, contractual requirements, and regulatory standards. Maintain accurate purchasing records, supplier documentation, and procurement files. Support internal and external audits as required. Track and report key purchasing metrics, including savings, supplier performance, and delivery performance. Cross-Functional Collaboration Work closely with Operations, Finance, Quality, Transportation, Category Management/Pricing and other departments to understand purchasing requirements. Provide guidance and recommendations regarding suppliers, products, and procurement best practices. Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance procurement efficiency and effectiveness. Other Duties as assigned QualificationsRequired Knowledge and Skills: Good communication skills. Strong organizational skills. Shows initiative/self-motivated. Problem solving ability. Embraces a continuous improvement mindset. High level of comprehension. Embraces Dutch Valley’s Mission/Vision/Values Adapts quickly to changing requirements Demonstrates intellectual curiosity and continuous learning   Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree or high school diploma with a minimum of 5 years purchasing experience. Experience with JDE ERP System preferred.  Experience with other ERP or SAP considered. Experience purchasing items within category preferred. Physical Requirements: Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer. Must be able to lift 50 pounds at times.