MRO Commodity Buyer

The MRO Commodity Buyer is responsible for assisting Corporate Commodity Management with sourcing and purchasing of direct and indirect materials, supplies and equipment necessary for maintenance, repair and operations (MRO) for the High-tech Industrial and Medical Division. This role combines technical procurement, and support for Corporate Commodity Initiatives in strategic sourcing activities to drive operational excellence. The MRO Commodity Buyer will assist with sourcing strategies, develop KPIs and tools to optimize the MRO supply base, mitigate risk, manage inventory and reduce cost. The role will include assisting the MRO Manager with supplier qualifications, contract negotiations, support cost reduction initiatives, risk management and ongoing performance improvement. Responsibilities will also include leading vendor QBRs, site support.

Sourcing and Purchasing:

• Responsible for acquiring quotes, sourcing and purchasing materials, supplies, and equipment necessary for maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO).
• Assist with MRO sourcing and commodity strategies, including indirect materials and services.
• Mitigate cost impact from tariffs and regulatory changes.
• Prepare and process purchase orders and requisitions

Commodity and Supplier Development:

• Assist with negotiating contracts, evaluating supplier performance, and managing supplier relationships to ensure cost-effective procurement while maintaining quality standards.
• Define, track, and review KPIs across MRO spend categories and supplier performance and report to management.
• Build and maintain demand forecasts for core MRO categories.
• Monitor commodity and supply markets for pricing, lead time, and risk trends
• Evaluate Mexico (Innova) based vendors to establish strong preferred vendor base and reduce vendor count
• Develop long-term supplier relationships and execute QBRs to ensure consistent service levels
• Develop supplier capabilities aligned to quality requirements, and facility requirements.
• Support root cause analysis and CAPA initiatives for supplier performance issues.
• Partner with engineering and maintenance teams on new equipment or spare parts sourcing.
• Support quality certifications requirements, readiness and maintain QMS compliance.

Cost Analysis:

• Analyze purchasing data and market trends to make informed decisions and recommendations for future purchasing strategies.
• Apply financial tools to evaluate supplier proposals and drive cost transparency.
• Collaborate with Corporate Commodity Management to implement cost reduction projects using spend analysis, market intelligence, supplier consolidation, alternate sourcing, and consumption control.

Inventory Management:

• Monitor inventory levels and forecast demand to maintain optimal stock levels and prevent supply chain disruptions or excess material.
• Develop usage trend analysis tools

Collaboration:

• Work closely with cross-functional teams, including production, quality assurance, and logistics, to ensure seamless integration of procurement activities.
• Collaborate with internal departments to understand and meet their material requirements

MRO Commodity Buyer Qualifications & Skills:

• Strong analytical skills with proficiency in data analysis tools
• Excellent negotiation and contract management skills
• Familiarity with ERP systems and procurement software
• Proven track record of achieving cost savings and process improvements
• Ability to work effectively in a cross-functional team environment
• Strong negotiation and communication skills
• Proven experience in MRO, indirect procurement, and supplier relationship management
• Strong command of Microsoft Office, especially Excel for spend analysis and cost modeling Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities
• Familiarity with supply chain risk management practices
• Knowledge of relevant industry standards and regulations
• Proficient verbal and written communication skills in English.
• Working knowledge of Lean, ISO9001, and OSHA standards.
• Ability to read technical drawings, specifications, and vendor contracts.

Experience / Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, Business, Engineering, or related field preferred.
• 5+ years of experience in sourcing or MRO procurement roles.
• Experience in contract manufacturing or industrial environments is preferred.
• Project management certification or experience is a plus.
• MRO plant-level or multi-site procurement leadership preferred.