Senior Buyer – Plastics and Chemicals

Position Summary

• We are seeking a highly skilled and strategic Senior Buyer to manage the procurement of raw materials, indirect/non-production materials, MRO, services, and capital equipment. This role is critical in ensuring cost-effective sourcing, continuity of supply, and alignment with the company’s operational and business objectives.The ideal candidate will have strong experience in the plastics industry, with specific knowledge of resins, TiO₂, carbon black, and chemical additives. This position operates in a collaborative environment, engaging cross-functionally with Procurement, Supply Chain, Regulatory, Quality, Sales, Technical Services, and Operations teams to drive supplier performance, cost savings, and supply chain efficiency.
• Key Responsibilities
• Manage purchasing requirements for facilities across the USA and Canada.
• Maintain detailed purchase records and vendor data, including specifications, pricing history, performance, and contracts.
• Conduct market analysis to identify trends, cost drivers, and technological shifts within the supply base.
• Lead supplier selection, quotation processes, total cost of ownership analysis, and contract negotiations.
• Build and maintain strong supplier relationships through visits, audits, and performance evaluations.
• Develop commodity strategies to maximize purchasing leverage, ensure continuity of supply, and drive cost efficiency.
• Support material budget planning, cost forecasting, and key performance initiatives.
• Lead supplier negotiations, cost reduction workshops, and corrective action processes.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to mitigate supply risk and improve supplier performance.
• Qualifications
• Required Skills & Abilities
• Strong industry knowledge in plastics and chemicals procurement.
• Expertise in supplier relationship management and strategic sourcing.
• In-depth understanding of global supply chain success factors.
• Strong analytical, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to interpret blueprints and engineering documents.
• Advanced computer proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Power BI.
• Experience with Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central and Power BI (strongly preferred).
• Ability to manage multiple projects independently.
• Knowledge of supply market trends, industry associations, and contract law as it relates to purchasing.
• Willingness and ability to travel as needed.
• Education & Experience
• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Logistics, Chemistry, or a related field (preferred).
• 5+ years of procurement experience; plastics or chemical industry background strongly preferred.
• Why This is a Great Opportunity
• You will play a key role in shaping procurement strategies and driving supply chain excellence across North America. This position offers an exciting opportunity for a motivated professional to apply their expertise in a fast-paced, collaborative, and innovative environment.
• Type
• Full Time
• Experience Requirements
• (Years)5+
• Work Model
• On Site
• Seniority Level
• Associate
• Location
• Morrison, TN 37357, USA

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $85,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Education:

• Bachelor's (Required)

Experience:

• Procurement: 5 years (Required)
• plastics or chemical industry: 5 years (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Morrison, TN 37357 (Required)

Work Location: In person