Senior Buyer / Planner

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced Senior Buyer/Planner to lead the procurement and planning of direct materials, including electrical, mechanical, and consumable components, within a biotech environment. This role is responsible not only for ensuring material availability but for actively driving cost-reduction initiatives, supplier negotiations, and continuous improvement across the supply base.

The ideal candidate is hands-on, data-driven, and comfortable owning purchase price variance (PPV), supplier strategy, and cross-functional cost-out efforts while supporting production and growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Own procurement and planning for materials (electrical, mechanical, and consumables) supporting production
• Lead supplier negotiations focused on purchase price reduction, lead time improvement, and commercial terms
• Develop and execute cost-out initiatives, including should-cost analysis, resourcing, volume leverage, and design-for-cost collaboration
• Actively manage PPV, identify trends, and implement corrective actions
• Establish and maintain planning parameters (lead times, safety stock, MOQ) in the ERP/MRP system
• Partner with Engineering, Manufacturing, and Quality on supplier changes, alternate sourcing, and cost-reduction opportunities
• Drive supplier performance through scorecards, reviews, and corrective action plans
• Identify and mitigate supply risk while balancing inventory, service levels, and cost
• Support compliance and documentation requirements in a regulated manufacturing environment
• Mentor junior buyers/planners and contribute to best practices across the supply chain function

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or a related field
• 7+ years of experience in direct materials procurement and planning
• Demonstrated success driving cost reductions and supplier negotiations
• Strong understanding of MRP/ERP systems and planning logic (SAP)
• Experience managing electrical, mechanical, and/or consumable components
• Proven ability to work cross-functionally and influence without authority
• Strong analytical, negotiation, and communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience leading sourcing or resourcing initiatives
• APICS/ASCM certification (CPIM, CSCP)
• Advanced Excel and data analysis capabilities