Category Buyer

Location: Brantford, ON

Type: Full-time

Salary: $55k-$58k/yr.

We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Procurement Specialist to support the development and execution of procurement strategies across multiple product categories. The ideal candidate will be responsible for conducting supplier research, negotiating contracts, tracking performance, and ensuring compliance with company and regulatory standards. This role will work cross-functionally with internal teams and external suppliers to meet business needs efficiently and cost-effectively.

Responsibilities:

• Assist in developing procurement strategies and category plans for specific product categories.
• Support daily procurement activities to ensure timely and reliable material availability.
• Monitor procurement progress and align with company requirements and plans.
• Perform data-driven procurement analysis to identify and implement cost-saving opportunities.
• Develop procurement plans based on historical data and demand forecasting.
• Conduct market analysis and supplier evaluations to support sourcing decisions.
• Monitor commodity pricing and adapt strategies accordingly.
• Assist with or lead contract negotiations, prepare documentation, and ensure compliance.
• Maintain organized records of supplier negotiations and contracts.
• Track supplier performance metrics and manage corrective actions when needed.
• Coordinate and maintain supplier agreements, addressing any administrative tasks.
• Support auditing of supplier documentation and identify compliance issues.
• Ensure all procurement activities follow internal policies, regulatory standards, and ethical practices.
• Stay up-to-date on procurement regulations and best practices through training and development.
• Collaborate with sales, marketing, operations, and finance to gather and align business requirements.
• Facilitate communication across departments to ensure procurement aligns with broader business goals.
• Coordinate procurement activities with internal stakeholders for efficiency and alignment.
• Adopt and reflect core company values, business principles, and behavioural standards.
• Contribute to a collaborative team environment, sharing knowledge and best practices.
• Participate in continuous improvement efforts to enhance procurement processes.
• Manage time effectively and provide accurate, timely reporting as required.

Requirements:

· Minimum of 3 years’ experience in procurement or supply chain roles within a manufacturing environment.

· Procurement of IT hardware.

· Negotiation and supplier management.

· Experience of procurement systems and software, Microsoft Office Suite, and knowledge of ERP systems.

· Analytical skills, with the capacity to interpret procurement data and support decision-making processes.

· CIPS/ASCM procurement qualifications. Degree, diploma or similar qualification in supply chain management or Completion of High School or Equivalent.

· Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with an ability to engage and build rapport with all levels of people, including internal stakeholders and suppliers.

· Passionate and energetic team player with a positive outlook.

· Process driven with logical, planned and structured methodology.

· High level of accuracy and meticulousness in maintaining documentation, contracts, and supplier records.

· Self-motivated and able to multi-task handling multiple priorities.

· Works well under pressure in order to meet deadlines.