Purchasing Category Specialist

PURCHASING CATEGORY SPECIALIST

RESPONSIBILITIES

Reporting to the Purchasing Category Manager, this role is responsible for creating strategies and directly managing commodities and suppliers to exceed targets. Works with the PMO and category managers to the Total Cost of Ownership of the goods and services within the category/commodity. Performs category management, including strategic sourcing, supplier relationship management, contracting, performance, and risk management. Works cross functionally with material planning, production, cost engineering, legal, engineering, and finance. Proactively seeks input and guidance from more senior category specialists and category manner in the execution of duties.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Development and selection of suppliers, including international sourcing
• Cost control, change control, and parts and service support for goods and services procured
• Manage assigned commodities and supply chain strategy
• Implement contracting strategies and contracts for goods or services
• Responsible for support, implementation, and administration of supply agreements
• Ensure all contract administration procedures are followed and executed in a professional manner
• Resolve CSR and STR cases in an expedited manner
• Perform cost analysis and assess impacts of supplier cost files
• Assist in purchasing administrative duties (examples, however, not an all-inclusive list below):
  • LN part set-up, PDR creation, and enter approved cost changes
  • LN part updates, PMO/PLM assistance/liaison to OE engineering
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of the commercial truck/automotive market
• Ability to accomplish basic financial analysis, supplier selection, and approval
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Ability to perform in high-stress, fast-paced environment
• Working technical knowledge of the goods or services to be purchased
• Proficiency in MS Office applications

EDUCATION AND/OR TRAINING:

• Bachelor degree or equivalent experience required
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience working in purchasing/procurement

• The specific statements shown in each section of this description are not intended to be all-inclusive. They represent typical elements and criteria necessary to successfully perform the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions

Blue Bird’s winning culture is fueled by our ability to respect, encourage, celebrate and embrace the unique perspectives of all of our employees. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer who is committed to providing all of our employees with a work environment free of discrimination or harassment. We base our employment decisions on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, national, social or ethnic origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital status, past or present military service, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate.

Candidates for this position must be legally authorized to work in the United States and will be required to provide proof of employment eligibility at the time of hire

Experience

• 3 year(s): Purchasing and/or Procurement

Education

• Bachelors or better