Procurement Specialist

Overview We’re looking for a motivated and detail-oriented Buyer to support our manufacturing operations. In this role, you’ll help manage purchasing activities, coordinate with global suppliers, and ensure the smooth flow of materials from order to delivery. This is a great opportunity for someone early in their career who wants to gain hands-on experience across procurement, logistics, and inventory management in a collaborative and fast-paced environment. About You You’re detail-oriented, resourceful, and curious about how things move from supplier to production floor. You enjoy solving problems, staying organized, and supporting teams to keep operations running smoothly. You’re comfortable juggling priorities and communicating with suppliers – and you take pride in getting things done right and on time. If you’re looking to grow your career in procurement within a fast-paced manufacturing environment, this role offers great hands-on experience and learning opportunities. Why Join Us You’ll be part of a team that values collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement. This role gives you the opportunity to work closely with global suppliers and internal partners across operations, production, and logistics. Reporting to the Purchasing Manager, you’ll gain exposure to the full supply chain process, from sourcing and purchasing to inventory management and inbound freight coordination, while contributing directly to the success of our manufacturing operations. We offer a supportive environment where you can develop your skills, expand your experience, and grow your career in procurement. Key Responsibilities Plan and manage procurement activities based on current operational needs in line with specified cost, quality, and delivery targets. Process and prepare purchase orders and provide support for goods receipt. Maintain suitable inventory levels to support operational strategy while keeping inventory at reasonable levels to support working capital. Manage freight forwarding companies and oversee inbound logistics, ensuring stakeholders are informed of any delays or transportation issues. Work with vendors to obtain quotes and review supplier information (source of supply, price, quality, availability, terms and conditions, etc.) and follow up to ensure timely delivery. Issue, expedite, and track shipments; follow up on undelivered goods; and resolve related problems or disputes. Work closely with suppliers to manage procurement, availability, and flow of consigned inventory. Ensure continuous supply of required goods and materials and communicate any supply issues that could impact business operations. Research and evaluate opportunities to reduce costs where possible. Source new suppliers and products as required by operational needs in line with cost, quality, and delivery targets. Develop ideas and strategies to improve operational efficiency, add value, and support continuous improvement. Negotiate contracts, pricing, and terms with suppliers, reviewing opportunities for savings using best practice procurement methods. Maintain a professional and consistent approach to all supplier relationships. Track and record procurement-related KPIs. Work with suppliers to resolve price, quality, delivery, or invoice issues. Collaborate and negotiate with stakeholders and suppliers regarding new projects, supplies, and initiatives, advising on impacts to purchasing and production activities. Stay current on any changes that may affect the supply and demand of materials and advise relevant teams of potential impacts. Attend meetings and update others on issues or risks that may impact customer demands or capacity. Monitor inventory levels and conduct periodic cycle counts. Analyze inventory inaccuracies, determine root causes, and recommend improvements to inventory management. Support product change requests and communicate impacts on capacity plans. Be willing to work Asia and European hours when needed to support critical, time-sensitive tasks or projects. Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned. Qualifications Education & Experience Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, Business, Operations, or a related field. 2–4 years of experience in procurement, purchasing, or supply chain, ideally within a manufacturing or production setting. Familiarity with manufacturing materials, components, and inventory management processes. Experience coordinating with international suppliers and logistics partners is an asset. Technical Skills Comfortable using ERP or MRP systems to create purchase orders, track deliveries, and manage inventory (experience with NetSuite, SAP, or Oracle is a plus). Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel in analyzing data to track orders, shipments, and KPIs. Working knowledge and understanding of import/export documentation, Incoterms, and freight forwarding. Knowledge of inventory control principles and willingness to learn more advanced processes such as cycle counting and discrepancy resolution. Technology savvy – able to learn new systems and tools to improve efficiency in procurement and logistics. Soft Skills Strong attention to detail and ability to follow through on commitments. Effective communication and negotiation skills when working with suppliers and cross-functional teams. Highly organized, proactive, and eager to learn, with a problem-solving mindset. Collaborative and team-oriented, with the ability to work closely with operations, production, and finance. Other Requirements When needed, willingness to work early or late hours to support suppliers in different time zones (Asia or Europe) A continuous improvement mindset and openness to taking on new challenges as the business grows.