Purchasing Manager

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Purchasing Manager to oversee purchasing, procurement, and production planning operations for an established manufacturing organization in San Antonio, TX. This individual will lead a team of eight employees, including four buyers and four production planning team members.

The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in purchasing, manufacturing operations, vendor negotiations, production planning, and team leadership. This position requires a hands-on leader who can develop employees, strengthen supplier relationships, improve purchasing processes, and ensure materials are available to meet production demands.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, coach, train, and develop a team of eight employees across purchasing and production planning.
• Oversee procurement of raw materials, components, supplies, and other manufacturing materials.
• Manage vendor relationships, negotiate pricing and contracts, and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Coordinate purchasing activities with production schedules, inventory levels, and manufacturing requirements.
• Oversee production forecasting, scheduling, logistics coordination, and material pickups.
• Monitor inventory levels and purchasing needs to prevent shortages and production delays.
• Utilize ERP systems to manage purchase orders, track materials, and maintain accurate purchasing records.
• Evaluate supplier performance, pricing, quality, and delivery timelines.
• Collaborate with operations, production, warehouse, and other departments to improve workflow efficiency.
• Identify opportunities to streamline purchasing procedures, reduce costs, and improve supply chain performance.
• Support domestic and international sourcing activities as needed.
• Ensure purchasing activities align with company budgets, policies, and operational objectives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
• 10+ years of progressive purchasing or procurement experience, including management responsibilities.
• 3+ years of experience negotiating vendor contracts and supplier agreements.
• Experience supporting purchasing and production planning within a manufacturing environment.
• Proven leadership experience managing, training, and developing employees.
• Strong vendor management, sourcing, negotiation, and cost-control skills.
• Experience with ERP systems and purchasing software; Microsoft Dynamics AX experience is a plus.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook, and other business applications.
• Strong communication, organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience managing both purchasing and production planning teams.
• International purchasing or sourcing experience, particularly involving Mexico.
• Bilingual English/Spanish communication skills.
• Experience with production forecasting, logistics scheduling, and inventory management.
• Background in manufacturing, consumer products, or related industries.