Buyer/Planner

WHO WE ARE:

Smithers-Oasis is a diverse global manufacturer and marketer of floral foam and design media, floral accessories, postharvest products, cellular growing media, temperature control packaging, medical impression foam, and custom foams for specialized applications. Our business divisions include OASIS Floral Products, Floralife Postharvest Products, Design Master, OASIS Grower Solutions, Temprecision International, Medical Impression Foam, and Engineered Products.

Our business divisions and operating units all have the same goal - to provide solutions-based products and services - and our network of facilities around the world enables Smithers-Oasis to provide these at the local level, yet with a global perspective. For floral markets, that means products reflect local cultural preferences and traditions. From horticultural and postharvest perspectives, we work with suppliers throughout the global supply chain to maximize crop production and protect products from harvest to the point of sale. For our specialty foam divisions, we drive innovation, accept accountability, and are positioned to partner with operations worldwide.

At Smithers-Oasis, we are committed to quality and innovation. We are proud to collaborate with our communities to create longstanding, supportive partnerships and customer satisfaction.

WHAT WE NEED:

We are looking for a proactive and critical-thinking individual to fill the role of Buyer/Planner in Kent, OH. The Buyer/Planner's goal is to drive the best possible price, delivery, and quality on all purchased materials.

Some responsibilities of the Buyer/Planner position include (but are not limited to): 

• Examines and analyzes purchase orders and requisitions for completeness and accuracy of information.
• Determines the most appropriate method to process the order or requisition based on dollar amount, timeliness required, existing orders and contracts and/or competitive bidding.
• Updates records and files. Secures samples, descriptions, photos or information for departments. 
• Writes purchase orders and maintains orders in electronic systems.
• Prepares supplier and purchasing status written reports, administrative tasks such as filing, researching and submitting change orders. Assists with Accounts Payable issues, creates credit memos and assists Operations with inventory shortages. 
• Follows up on the status of orders and proactively works to resolve any issues that could result in late deliveries.
• Works through price discrepancies or variances and resolves with Accounts Payable.
• Maintains personal contact with vendors and suppliers when working through problems or following up on orders.
• Responsible for maintenance of information in the ERP system. Monitors and updates the ERP database, supplier files, item files and open/closed purchase order files.  Utilizes the ERP system to detect potential problems with maintaining inventory supplies or meeting supply deadlines. 
• Plans orders and follows-up on orders for purchased products assigned, ensuring required delivery dates are met.
• Works with supplier representatives in problem solving.
• Maintains and communicates to Supply & SIOP Manager the status of backordered finished goods or shortage of production material.
• Processes non-conforming material requests and RMA/RTV requests with supply chain partners.
• Initiates and organizes requests for quotations for blanket orders, contract orders and spot buys for material as assigned.
• Provides elements of standard cost information.
• Facilitates export/import shipment of purchased goods, providing necessary information to the traffic function of distribution.
• Maintains Purchasing Department copy of purchased product specifications.
•  Sends out of stock reports to internal team.
• Handles direct ship orders, send PO to suppliers
• Inputs Inventory and forecast corrections and updates system.
• Recommends forecast changes to Supply & SIOP Manager and Product Manager based on trending consumption
• Updates safety stock and lead times on a bi-annual basis.
• Supplier performance monitored and supplier scorecards are to be sent out every quarter.
• Assist Marketing, Production, and Distribution for one-time buys.
• Communicates concern and resolution to Customer Service when stocking levels of finished goods or materials fall below current requirements
• Conducts analysis for problem identification and resolution when issues arise regarding purchased products
• Assists in sourcing or second sourcing for ongoing or new projects
• Assists in cost negotiations
• Leads, participates in, and supports Smithers-Oasis continuous improvement activities.

  WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR:

• An individual with a bachelor's degree (B.A.) from a four-year college or university is preferred. ISM or APICS certification preferred.
• An individual with a minimum 3 – 5 years of previous experience in manufacturing-related purchasing is required.
• Experience with ERP systems such as JD Edwards (Oracle) or SAP preferred.
• This individual must possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• This individual must be able to communicate clearly and professionally both orally and in written form. Must have the ability to respond well to questions and challenges. 
• An individual with Advanced Knowledge and Experience using Microsoft Excel.

WHAT WE OFFER:

• An annual base salary range of $55,000 to $66,000, plus a 5% annual bonus potential
• A full-time career with a competitive salary and benefit plan options, paid-time off and an immediately vested company-matched 401k plan
• Our company culture places a high value on integrity and trust, respect, collaboration, and a proper work/life balance
• An opportunity to add value to the organization and build strong professional relationships

Salary : $55,000 - $66,000