Senior Buyer

The Senior Buyer - Category Manager position is a subject matter expert and owner of their responsible category of products. Reporting to the Manager of Purchasing this role owns and delivers the category strategy in line with Les Schwab’s goals of customer service and profitability.

Key responsibilities are ownership over strategic product sourcing, supplier selection, pricing negotiations, product management, retail pricing ownership, product ordering, inventory management and supplier performance evaluations.

These responsibilities combine to create a reliable and profitable sales category that is fully supported by this role in the organization through collaboration with other departments and internal communication.

30% - Strategic product sourcing including supplier selection, pricing negotiations, supplier relationship management and supplier performance evaluations

25% - Annual, Quarterly and Monthly order forecasting, inventory management and purchase order management.

25% - Product and retail price management for the categories encompassing identifying customer needs and launching / refreshing products to meet those needs along with LS goals. Creating, winning internal support and launching new programs for our stores and customers.

5% - Communications and training on owned categories with HQ, PVL & Store employees

5% - Lead and guide the product recall process for categories

10% - Project based work as assigned by the Executive Team

• Educational/Experience Requirements: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional work experience in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Engineering or related fields. Minimum of 10 years of professional work experience with a minimum of 5 years of purchasing or related experience in the automotive or commercial vehicle aftermarket sectors.

Proven negotiation and strong analytical skills.

• General knowledge of PC operation including Microsoft Office, Google Suite, and Business Intelligence programs (Oracle, Thoughtspot, Tableau). Experience with replenishment software and systems. Ability to read and understand technical specifications related to tires, wheels and chassis components.
• Must possess good verbal and written communication skills as well as presentation to executive management. Negotiation and support skills interfacing with suppliers, tire store and distribution center personnel.