Operational Buyer Direct III (Vacaville)

Job Title: Procurement / Supplier Performance Specialist

Summary:

Proactively manage the performance of raw material suppliers to ensure the Material Requirements Plan (MRP) is executed effectively. Maintain and update relevant Procurement Master Data in SAP to enable reliable MRP calculations and efficient Purchase Order creation. Support category managers and strategic buyers in implementing supply strategies while collaborating closely with Accounts Payable to resolve invoice and payment queries.

Key Responsibilities:

• Monitor and track supplier performance, providing feedback to category managers and strategic buyers.
• Support implementation of supplier changes and initiatives led by Central Category Managers and Site Strategic Buyers.
• Ensure all relevant material and vendor master data, as well as outline agreements, are accurate and up to date in SAP.
• Manage Level 2 vendor escalations, including:
• Expediting delivery confirmation dates to meet MRP and production needs
• Adjusting MRP-driven delivery dates (push out/pull in)
• Addressing late or missing PO confirmations
• Resolving pricing discrepancies
• Handling delivery and shipping-related issues and inquiries
• Drive vendor performance improvements in on-time delivery, quality compliance, and other contractual obligations.
• Manage and resolve vendor returns (RMA, cost recovery, replacements).
• Conduct regular open order review meetings with vendors.
• Manage Accounts Payable inquiries related to invoices or discrepancies.
• Support internal stakeholders in onboarding and approving new raw materials and suppliers.
• Lead competitive bidding processes (per policy) and execute RFx market interventions.
• Negotiate low-value contracts with suppliers.
• Train new joiners and mentor junior colleagues.
• Supervise and support junior team members.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support procurement operations.

Skills & Qualifications:

• Strong customer service mindset with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Positive attitude with willingness to learn and adapt to new processes.
• Solid understanding of general business and procurement practices.
• Experience in operational procurement and purchasing of direct/raw materials (PR-to-PO process).
• Proven ability to conduct competitive bid processes and manage supplier negotiations.
• Skilled at influencing suppliers to achieve optimal outcomes.
• Hands-on experience with SAP ERP in a procurement/purchasing role.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications.
• APICS certification or equivalent (MRP Planner) is highly desirable.