Purchasing Manager

OVERVIEW

A growing technology leader located in Annapolis Junction, MD, a subsidiary of Infors AG Switzerland. We manufacture, sell and service laboratory equipment to life science academic and industrial R&D and production. Our products include the industry leading Multitron incubation shakers and bioreactors for cell culture and microbial fermentation.

We have an immediate opening for an experienced Purchasing Manager for our manufacturing division. This full-time position will be responsible for keeping our Maryland-based manufacturing in parts and overseeing inventory.

Position Summary

The Purchasing Manager will lead procurement operations at our manufacturing facility. The role is responsible for sourcing, negotiating, and managing suppliers to ensure the timely and cost-effective acquisition of raw materials, components and services. This role also involves ownership of the company’s inventory levels and reconciliation to the ERP system. The ideal candidate will possess strong technical acumen to evaluate engineering drawings, understand manufacturing specifications, and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams including engineering, quality, and production.

Role and Responsibilities include:

• Develop and implement procurement strategies that align with production requirements, cost targets, and quality standards.

• Interpret technical drawings, specifications, and Bills of Materials (BOMs) to ensure accurate and timely purchasing

• Source and evaluate suppliers for quality, cost, delivery, and capabilities, lead supplier qualification efforts

• Collaborate with engineering and manufacturing teams on design changes, material substitutions, and cost saving initiatives.

• Manage vendor relationships, monitor key performance indicators such as on-time delivery, quality, and pricing

• Negotiate pricing, terms, and contracts in alignment with company policies and budget objectives

• Ensure compliance with safety standards, quality requirements, and internal procurement policies

• Maintain optimal inventory levels to prevent production delays

• Work with Manufacturing team to ensure Inventory items and balances are accurate in the ERP system (currently Microsoft GP).

• Utilize ERP systems to manage purchase orders, material planning, and reporting

Skills & Experience

Required Skills/Abilities:

•   Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.

• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.

• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.

•  Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate.

• Understanding of business and management principles.

• Thorough understanding of materials and supplies used in the company.

• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, or a related field – or a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in lieu of a degree

• 7-10 years of purchasing experience in a manufacturing environment

• Demonstrated ability to interpret technical drawings and engineering documentation.

• Knowledge of manufacturing processes such as machining, fabrication, and assembly

• Experience working with ERP systems

• Strong negotiation, communication, and analytical skills.

• Ability to work effectively in a cross-functional team environment.

• Supply chain certifications such as CPM, CPIM, or similar are a plus

Physical Demand

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer

• Capable of working in both a manufacturing floor and office environment.

• Must be able to lift-up to 15 pounds at times

• The physical demands described here are generally representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job with or without accommodation.

Additional Requirements

• COVID-19 considerations: Vaccination Required

• Background check

• Job Type: Full-time – In house.

• Some remote work possible but 80% in office is expected.