Senior Production Buyer - Outform Group
Chicago, IL 60632
About the Job
The primary responsibility of the role is to lead the print buying team sourcing print and other in-store merchandising materials for Outform’s retail clients, leading the cost-effective, high quality, on-time & in-full delivery across fast-paced, high-volume production and manufacturing schedules. This position is responsible for production performance for all in-house and outsourced production and manufacturing performance. The Senior Production Buyer will obtain, review and clarify client specifications from Outform’s project managers and deliver back estimates that meet all requirements at the best price. The candidate will possess and demonstrate an understanding of the printing and fabrication domain for temp, semi-temp, and permanent displays in-store. This is an exciting opportunity to be an integral part of the continued growth of this vertical as a part of a larger plan to grow Outform Group.
Essential Responsibilities:
· Collaborate with project managers and suppliers to improve a just-in-time program to minimize lead time.
· Determine workload across the print management team and reassign as necessary to meet client expectations.
· Take on print management projects to balance workload across the buying team – this is very much a working position.
· Shorten product lead time by updating and tracking panel of suppliers on time delivery and taking corrective action in line with the aim of achieving continuous supplier performance.
· Responsible for procuring sample parts as required.
· Analyze buy history and shortages to determine best method of procurement and expedite according to work order start dates.
· Develop and monitor supplier performance metrics.
· Update costing after verification by our vendors.
· Responsible for managing all purchase orders: correspondence, quotes, etc.
· Maintain open communication with our suppliers on lead-times.
· Escalate as necessary to meet client expectations.
· Work effectively and professionally with inter-departmental personnel.
Qualifications:
· Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
· Must have purchasing experience (metal, steel, plastics, corrugated, Foamcore, PVC, Printing, etc.).
· Has a strong academic background: Degree or equivalent experience.
· 7+ years of experience working with internal and external partners to provide obtain and provide estimates.
· Able to read and thoroughly understand blueprints, engineering CAD drawings and is able to interpret for proper pricing.
· Has strong math skills, especially involving percentages.
· Must be detail oriented.
· Has a passion for providing accurate and timely pricing to our clients.
Characteristics:
· Experience and knowledge of: Litho printing, Silk-screening, Digital printing, Mounting, Die-cutting, Assembly, Kitting preferred.
· Maintains a strong work ethic/driven by successful results.
· Strong organization ability and time management skills.
· Responsive and meets deadlines.
· Highly adaptive/fast learner, strong interpersonal skills, team player and good communication skills.
Physical Requirements
· Sitting at desk in front of computer for long periods.
· Some travel required.
· Lifting 20lbs or less.
This position requires full-time presence in our Chicago location.
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