Reports to : purchasing manager / procurement lead
position summary
the direct materials buyer is responsible for sourcing, negotiating, and managing the supply of direct materials required for production. This role ensures material availability, optimal cost, quality compliance, and supplier performance. The buyer collaborates closely with production, planning, quality, engineering, and global procurement teams to secure a reliable supply chain and support operational efficiency.
key responsibilities
* identify, evaluate, and select suppliers for direct materials aligned with company requirements.
* negotiate pricing, contract terms, lead times, and delivery conditions.
* monitor and manage supplier performance through kpis (otd, quality, responsiveness).
* maintain and develop strategic supplier relationships to ensure long-term stability and competitiveness.
material procurement
* execute purchase orders in accordance with production plans and inventory policies.
* ensure timely availability of materials to support uninterrupted manufacturing operations.
* manage demand forecasts and adjust orders based on production fluctuations.
* resolve supply issues, delays, shortages, or quality concerns quickly and effectively.
cost management & optimization
* conduct cost analysis to identify savings opportunities.
* participate in cost reduction initiatives and continuous improvement projects.
* maintain accurate pricing and master data in the erp system.
* support budget planning by providing updated cost estimates and market insights.
cross-functional collaboration
* coordinate with production, planning, and warehouse teams to align material needs.
* work with engineering and quality manage new product introductions (npi) and material qualification processes.
* collaborate with finance to reconcile invoices, resolve discrepancies, and maintain accurate records.
* support audits and ensure compliance with internal policies and procedures.
* identify supply chain risks and implement mitigation strategies.
* ensure compliance with corporate procurement policies, ethical sourcing standards, and regulatory requirements.
* participate in supplier audits and corrective action plans when necessary.
qualifications & requirements education
* bachelor's degree in supply chain, business administration, engineering, or a related field.
experience
* 2–4 years of experience in procurement, preferably in direct materials within a manufacturing or industrial environment.
* experience with global supply chains and strategic sourcing is a plus.
technical skills
* strong knowledge of procurement processes, negotiation, and supplier management.
* proficiency with erp systems (sap, oracle, or similar).
* solid understanding of logistics, inventory management, and production planning.
* intermediate to advanced excel skills.
soft skills
* excellent negotiation and communication skills.
* strong analytical and problem‐solving abilities.
* ability to work under pressure and manage competing priorities.
* proactive, organized, and results‐oriented mindset.
what we offer
* opportunity to grow within a global procurement organization.
* exposure to international suppliers and strategic sourcing.
* competitive compensation and benefits package.
* dynamic, collaborative, and fast‐paced work environment.
about skf
skf has been around for more than a century and today we are one of the world's largest global suppliers of bearings and supporting solutions for rotating equipment. With more than 40,000 employees in around 130 countries, we are truly global. Our products are found everywhere in society. In fact, wherever there is movement, skf's solutions might be at work. This means that we are an important part of the everyday lives of people and companies around the world.
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