Procurement Specialist

Martin Bauer is best known for bringing the benefits of botanicals to industry. Clients in the tea, beverage, food, animal nutrition, dietary supplement and pharmaceutical industries count on us to source, process and refine more than 200 botanicals from over 80 countries. Our partners – growers and clients – join us in bringing the functional power of plants from the field to the shelf in a sustainable way. Finding out what our botanicals can do for our clients comes natural to us.

We are seeking a seasoned procurement professional who possesses a strong track record of strategically sourcing and procuring goods and services at the best possible prices while maintaining high quality standards and timely delivery. You will have a strong understanding of supply chain management principles and a proven track record of negotiating and managing supplier relationships. You will thrive in high-pressure environments and take pride in being a key contributor to our manufacturing operations, working collaboratively within the local and remote cross-functional teams of a larger organization, and supporting our company's financial success. The ideal candidate will demonstrate exceptional skills in building supplier relationships, optimizing supply chain processes, and driving cost savings. Experience sourcing botanical-based/nutraceutical products and purchasing in a make to order/stock environment is highly desired!

This role is based out of Secaucus NJ. Candidates outside of the area who meet all the job requirements will be considered for remote work.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Source & purchase new and existing materials and supplies for the company per Martin Bauer Purchasing and Quality SOP’s/Policies/Requirements.
• Negotiate with existing and potential vendors for best combination of pricing, product, delivery, service and credit terms.
• Develop and execute procurement strategies aligning with company objectives.
• Issue purchase orders and ensure accuracy of quantity, price, spec/quality and delivery compared to POs issued.
• Perform follow-up with suppliers to assure timely deliveries.
• Serve as liaison between other departments and Materials Management Department to ensure adequate supplies of materials on hand.
• Purchase the best value at optimum terms and conditions.
• Work in partnership with Operations, Quality, and Sales to assure optimum customer satisfaction.
• Track and manage all POs to meet inventory requirements. (Expedite, Move Dates, communicate delays) including sending POs to vendor while ensuring confirmation.
• Source & negotiate all inbound domestic & int'l logistics - freight forwarders, ocean / air freight, brokers, drayage etc. This includes building & maintaining supplier network.
• Manage and coordinate all import and domestic transportation logistics in coordination with customs broker, logistics providers & internal departments, ensuring compliance, efficiency and reduce costs.
• Collect, verify and file commercial shipping docs including supplier invoices and facilitate to logistics providers and internal departments as needed to coordinate delivery. Moreover, monitor and prioritize payments with Director.
• Verify receipted amounts, lots etc. and resolve discrepancies with receiving / supplier.
• Manage material list pricing and initiate cost-saving measures.
• Manage Vendor Qualification for new and existing vendors.
• Monitor supplier performance and address issues as needed.
• Conduct market research to identify new suppliers, products, and services.
• Prepare various purchasing and arrival reports as needed.
• Develop & Maintain Vendor Relationships.
• Track and manage all project and commercial shipment sample submissions.
• Maintain master data vendor Request / Entry as well as material master entry.
• Verify & file COA's and other required certifications per item/lot/shipment to include Pre-ship Submission & follow up. Additionally, ensure VQ document collection, filing and submission, including QIR requests and entry.
• Coordinate & track returns / damages via the complaint system and file claims with logistics providers as needed.
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• Attend/participate in meetings for follow up and to help facilitate and coordinate R&D opportunities including utilizing our CRM system.
• Develop and lead analysis using advanced analytics and data driven processes.
• Serve as an initiative-taking leader and quick thinker that possess the ability to interact with a host of different personalities.
• Assure accurate and timely ERP data entry and management (SAP).
• Maintains close working relationship with Sales, Finance, Quality and Operations teams.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain and/or a Business / Commercial discipline or a combination of education and experience in purchasing, inventory management and international sourcing.
• Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience and knowledge of materials management in a manufacturing environment; considerable knowledge of modern policies and practices of business administration; working knowledge of finance; sales; customer service; and marketing.
• Ability to source, negotiate, and coordinate domestic and international purchasing activities.
• Requires frequent use of computer and software (Proficiency in MS Office Suite), and other appropriate office equipment.
• Knowledge of Manufacturing Methods and Procedures and ERP systems.
• SAP ERP functionality and system knowledge is required.
• Comprehensive knowledge of sourcing, supply planning, purchasing, receiving, warehousing, material handling, shipping, and inventory control concepts and principles.
• written and communication skills in English along with people skills that exemplify the highest level of professionalism in both internal and external environments.
• organization and time management skills.
• to travel as required both domestically and internationally.
• problem-solving skills: the ability to ask the right questions, help frame logical conclusions and arrive at effective solutions.
• planning and analytical skills and be able to take complex issues and break down actions for resolutions whilst working against tight deadlines.
• to participate, influence and (on occasion) lead cross-functional site teams; Ability to work well with teams. Develop relationships inside and outside the organization to enhance personal and company effectiveness.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to forecast demand and optimize supply chain efficiency.