Pennakem has a heritage of over 75 years with a unique company culture of a family atmosphere and high level of engagement. We are more than just a job and seek career-minded individuals who want to grow. Our base chemical derives from renewable resources and is environmentally friendly. We offer challenging and interesting work along with competitive salaries and benefits. We are currently seeking a Plant Buyer/Planner to join our team of talented employees! Role Description The Buyer/Planner will p repare and process purchase orders and requisitions for materials, supplies, and equipment. In this role, you’ll collaborate with other departments, such as Operations and Finance, to create effective business plans. You should also have experience in project management, as well as great leadership and communication ability. He/she will ensure proper supplier selection, drive competitive bidding whenever possible and practical, and negotiate goods and services for the lowest total cost, highest quality and superior performance. He/she will be a strategic thinker, and an individual capable of managing complex tasks independently while working with and supporting many stakeholders. The role will require proper delegation of tasks and time management skills to ensure maximum success of the purchasing group. Nature of Role Develop and execute an effective strategic sourcing plan which enables efficient sourcing and contracting in a fast-paced environment. Purchase raw or semi-finished materials for manufacturing. Purchase machinery, equipment, tools, parts, supplies, or services necessary for the operation of an establishment. Partner closely with the Engineering team to understand the total Capital budget and projects required to meet that budget and additionally with the manufacturing plants to ensure effective communication of requirements, efficient execution of sourcing projects, and compliance to our procurement policy. Incumbent will play a crucial role in developing and maintaining good relationships with vendors and distributors. Principal Accountabilities + Monitor and follow applicable laws and regulations. + Prepare purchase orders, solicit bid proposals, and review requisitions for goods and services. + Negotiate, renegotiate, and administer contracts with suppliers, vendors, and other representatives. + Purchase the highest quality merchandise at the lowest possible price and in correct amounts. + Analyze price proposals, financial reports, and other data and information to determine reasonable prices. + Formulate policies and procedures for bid proposals and procurement of goods and services. + Collaborate with other purchasing clerks. + Maintain and review computerized or manual records of purchased items, costs, deliveries, product performance, and inventories. + Research and evaluate suppliers, based on price, quality, selection, service, support, availability, reliability, production and distribution capabilities, and the supplier's reputation and history. + Confer with staff, users, and vendors to discuss defective or unacceptable goods or services and determine corrective action. + Evaluate and monitor contract performance to ensure compliance with contractual obligations and to determine need for changes. + Monitor shipments to ensure that goods come in on time, and resolve problems related to undelivered goods. + Study sales records and inventory levels of current stock to develop strategic purchasing programs that facilitate employee access to supplies. + Write and review product specifications, maintaining a working technical knowledge of the goods or services to be purchased. + Review catalogs, industry periodicals, directories, trade journals, and Internet sites and consult with other department personnel to locate necessary goods and services. + Monitor changes affecting supply and demand, tracking market conditions, price trends, or futures markets. + Perform cost and scenario analysis, and benchmarking. + Assess, manage, and mitigate risks, with sufficient communication to organization to elicit support to minimize said risks. + Monitor and forecast upcoming levels of demand, in conjunction with the Supply Chain function. + Provide reports and ensure compliance to deadlines to support the financial closings. + Ensure receipts of material is entered accurate, timely, and completely. + Other duties as assigned. Qualifications/Requirements + Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics or related field or commiserate experience required. + 5 to 7 years of strategic Procurement experience. Must be experienced in strategic sourcing and have a proven background of successful Procurement strategy implementation. + 5 to 7 years of experience in and around a manufacturing environment. + Hands-on plant operational experience is a plus. + High energy and highly flexible with demonstrated ability to excel in a dynamic environment. + Ability to work with minimal supervision and to prioritize and manage a broad range of accountabilities. + Experience with SAP is a plus. Desired Skills + Proven ability to influence stakeholders to comply with appropriate Procurement practices. + Strong relationship building skills. + Able to effectively interface with all levels and departments within the organization. + Ability to communicate effectively both verbally, and in writing of the English language. + Strong leadership and people skills. + Ability to understand financial statements. + Solid judgement along with decision making skills. + Ability to negotiate and network. + Ability to gather and analyze data and to work with figures. + Troubleshooting, problem solving. + Solid judgement along with decision making skills. + Strong business ethics. + Strong customer service orientation. Benefits + Medical & Vision Insurance + Dental Insurance + Paid Holidays + PTO + Dependent Life + Tuition Reimbursement + Safety Glasses allowance + Safety Shoes allowance + 401(k) Matching + Profit Sharing