Senior Buyer

Location: Lawrenceburg, Indiana
Department: Procurement
Reports To: Senior Procurement Manager
Travel: Approximately 25%

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Senior Buyer to support procurement activities for a manufacturing operation in Lawrenceburg, Indiana. This position is responsible for maintaining a reliable and cost-effective supply of materials and services while balancing quality, availability, service and overall commercial value.

The Senior Buyer will manage supplier relationships, lead negotiations, evaluate supplier performance and identify opportunities to improve purchasing practices and reduce costs. The role works closely with internal teams across operations, planning, logistics, finance and quality to support production requirements and business continuity.

Key Responsibilities

Develop and maintain productive relationships with key suppliers, including conducting regular business reviews covering pricing, quality, service levels, product requirements, payment terms and overall supplier performance.

Lead commercial negotiations for assigned materials and services with an emphasis on competitive pricing, quality standards, reliable delivery and favorable terms.

Monitor supply requirements and work proactively with suppliers and internal stakeholders to help ensure materials and services are available when needed to support manufacturing operations.

Identify cost-saving opportunities and develop continuous improvement initiatives that strengthen sourcing, purchasing and negotiation practices.

Assess supplier performance using established company systems and relevant measures such as delivery performance, quantities, commercial terms, market conditions and service levels.

Identify, evaluate and develop new or existing suppliers capable of providing effective solutions for evolving operational and business requirements.

Maintain appropriate procurement documentation, procedures, records and related materials to support consistent purchasing practices, internal requirements and applicable company standards.

Partner with Finance, Planning, Logistics, Plant Operations and Quality to resolve supply issues, address changing requirements and support organizational objectives.

Qualifications & Experience

Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline is preferred.

A minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience is required.

Previous purchasing or buyer experience is required, with experience in consumer products and/or the beverage industry preferred.

Demonstrated experience negotiating pricing, commercial terms and service expectations with suppliers.

Working knowledge of SAP purchasing functionality.

Spanish-language skills are preferred but not required.

Key Competencies

Strategic Planning & Organization: Effectively prioritizes competing demands, manages time and resources, establishes objectives and develops practical plans for achieving results.

Commercial & Business Acumen: Understands how purchasing decisions affect cost, profitability and operational performance. Maintains awareness of supplier markets and competitive conditions and connects procurement activities to broader business objectives.

Supplier Negotiation & Relationship Management: Builds effective supplier partnerships while maintaining a strong commercial focus. Able to evaluate alternatives, negotiate favorable terms and address performance concerns constructively.

Problem Solving: Identifies issues, gathers and evaluates relevant information and develops practical solutions. Uses sound judgment when addressing supply, supplier and operational challenges.

Communication: Communicates clearly and professionally with suppliers, colleagues and other stakeholders. Able to explain information effectively, ask appropriate questions, listen carefully and participate confidently in meetings and presentations.

Collaboration: Works effectively across departments and balances individual responsibilities with broader team objectives. Welcomes input, provides constructive feedback and contributes to a positive, results-oriented working environment.

Continuous Improvement & Change: Identifies opportunities to improve purchasing practices and supports the implementation of new processes and approaches. Communicates changes effectively, helps gain stakeholder support and evaluates results following implementation.