Import Buyer

Overview

Import Buyer

 

The Import Buyer is responsible for global source selection and procurement functions directly associated with the Company's product, material and service requirements. These products and services are to be secured at best cost, highest quality and timely delivery, consistent with Company policy and quality performance standards. This position is a strategic role within our full company Supply Chain management. Key objectives will be achieving/improving/exceeding targeted customer service levels, managing international supplier relationships and related costing, inventory levels/targets, studying global market trends, as well as managing supply and demand within the Global Supply Chain. The Import Buyer will verify receipt of items and authorizes payment when necessary. The Import Buyer will provide assistance in developing the best method of re-ordering products to meet management determined inventory levels. The Import Buyer will help manage control of inventory.

Responsibilities

Solicit international cost and delivery quotations to meet requirements of Purchasing and Sales Management

Communicate with current overseas vendors and manage international supplier relationships

Negotiate pricing and place purchase orders with approved foreign suppliers based on product requisitions or other automatic order systems; includes data entry, printing, and sending of purchase orders; ensure necessary drawings, specifications, and special information is part of purchase order and forwarded to suppliers when required

Expedite quotations, orders, container shipments, backorders and resolves vendor/internal errors

Maintain accurate data files (both electronic and manual filing systems) for all active international suppliers, specifically quotations, purchase orders, standard/landed costs, file attachments, delivery lead-times, requisitions, etc. in accordance with standard documentation control procedures

Drive supplier OTD (On Time Delivery) to >95% to vendor delivery request date thru improved material availability

Review product requirements and/or min/max triggers and utilize company ERP system to evaluate material requirements for internal distribution/manufacturing consumption as well as external customer orders

Communicate effectively with purchasing and related company personnel on the status of supplier lead-times, schedule delays, customer expedites or cancellations, and international freight concerns; provide updated container ship dates and communication to the appropriate personnel

Source new global suppliers and evaluates capabilities for supply of product to meet or exceed established company quality standards. Develop sourcing strategies and communicate plan; responsible for on-site vetting, pricing negotiations and collaboration with internal quality team on sample request and testing approval; report finding to Purchasing Management for consideration

Act upon the disposition of Non-Conformance products and obtain returned goods authorization from vendors

Coordinates as appropriate, quality matters and engineering changes/developments between Company activities and suppliers

Visit existing and potential new suppliers’ facilities when appropriate to re-certify or help qualify new sources.

Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

Education

A high school diploma or GED is required; an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university with a focus in Business Administration, Supply Chain, Finance, Economics, Engineering, or related discipline preferred; in the absence of a degree, directly related job experience serving in an industrial purchasing role, where an acceptable number of years and proven knowledge may offset the degree requirement

 

Experience & Skills

• At least two years of progressively responsible international procurement experience and sourcing activities in a manufacturing or distribution environment
• Possess solid understanding of international shipping terms and global logistics (inbound freight, tariff classification, harmonized tariff codes and customs documentation), as well as currency exchange valuation
• An understanding of production planning and product distribution channels
• Participate in process enhancement and problem solving utilizing continuous improvement and rational thinking skills
• Solid written and verbal communication skills are required
• Strong analytical, conceptual and planning skills are required
• Collaborate effectively with others in a team environment
• Solid math skills, excel abilities and overall PC literacy (Microsoft Office) are required. Previous ERP system experience a plus
• International experience/knowledge specific to the Pacific Far East/Asian markets a plus
• Awareness of cultural differences globally. Foreign language ability a plus
• Must be detail oriented, self-starter and disciplined with ability to manage short term priorities and multiple tasks
• Must successfully complete a criminal background check, physical, drug screen and E-verify

Why Team Members join Mazzella:

• Team-oriented environment
• A real Work life/ Home life balance
• Growth and Development Opportunities including a Lifelong Learning Career Path
• Humble, Hungry, Smart Culture
• Market Competitive Salaries
• Free Virtual Doctor visits with $0 copay (Teledoc)
• Tuition Reimbursement

Mazzella Core Values:

Be Safe – personal commitment to all stakeholder’s well-being; purposeful control of risk

Be a Lifelong Learner – routinely acquire new skills and capabilities that bring value

Be Humble – lack excessive ego or concerns about status; emphasize the Team over self

Be Hungry – always looking for more, self-motivated, and diligent; do more than to just get by, committed

Be Smart – common sense about people, good judgement, and intuition around their impact on group dynamic

 

EOE/Drug Free Workplace