**Scope of the position**: The Buyer is responsible for ensuring an uninterrupted flow of materials to support production and customer requirements while maintaining optimal inventory levels. This role drives supplier quality, cost, and delivery performance for both new and existing programs. The position requires close collaboration with Sales, Accounting, R\&D, Manufacturing, Engineering, and Quality teams to achieve operational excellence. Key deliverables include maintaining strong supplier relationships, driving continuous improvement in cost and lead times, and supporting business objectives across multiple functions. **Key Responsibilities**: * Create and release Production Orders and Purchase Requisitions on time to support the master schedule. * Manage materials for assembly, machining, and subcontracting processes, including internal movements and supplier coordination. * Identify and resolve critical material shortages; implement corrective action plans; manage obsolete, non\-conforming, and excess inventory. * Monitor performance against the production plan and take proactive measures to mitigate risks. * Manage inventory levels to support customer demand while achieving financial inventory targets. * Maintain accuracy of Bill of Materials (BOM) and master data for assigned commodities. * Ensure system accuracy through proper date management and exception handling. * Track schedule adherence, work order completion, and on\-time release metrics. * Collaborate with Operations, Scheduling, Engineering, and other departments to resolve material and production issues. * Forecast and plan purchasing needs based on lead times, demand, and inventory targets. * Set and manage safety stock levels and optimize material replenishment schedules. * Oversee all stages of the procure\-to\-pay process — from RFQs and purchase orders to delivery and invoicing. * Support cost reduction initiatives through competitive bidding, supplier sourcing, and design\-for\-manufacturing input. * Maintain strong supplier relationships and serve as the primary liaison for delivery performance and issue resolution. * Manage the transition of new products into production, ensuring timely and efficient ramp\-up. * Communicate proactively with internal stakeholders regarding order status, schedule challenges, and changes. * Partner with IT and other business teams to improve planning systems and processes. * Track and report key planning metrics to support exception management. **Essential Skills \& Experience**: * Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, Supply Chain, or related field; or 5\+ years of proven buyer experience. * Minimum 2 years of buyer or materials planning experience. * Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications. * Strong analytical and problem\-solving skills with high attention to detail. * Self\-motivated, adaptable, and capable of working independently or collaboratively. * Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills. * Familiarity with customs, trade compliance, and import/export regulations. * Proficiency in English **Preferred Skills \& Experience:** * Master’s degree in Business, Engineering, Supply Chain Management, or Economics. * Experience reading blueprints, interpreting specifications, and managing PPAP documentation. * Automotive industry experience (ISO 14001 and IATF 16949 preferred). * Experience with plastics manufacturing. **Decision making authority**: Upon successful completion of training, the Buyer has the authority and responsibility to: * Determine order quantities for raw materials. * Provide input into purchasing decisions and supplier negotiations.