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Lead Buyer
Job
Robert Half
Hayward, CA (In Person)
Full-Time
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Job Description
Description We are looking for an experienced Lead Buyer to oversee strategic sourcing and procurement activities that support our client in Hayward, California. This contract opportunity is ideal for a detail-oriented candidate who can strengthen vendor partnerships, improve purchasing consistency, and drive cost-effective outcomes across multiple categories. The role will play a key part in establishing standards, supporting cross-functional alignment, and maintaining a reliable supply base that meets operational needs.
Responsibilities:
- Direct competitive sourcing efforts and negotiate supplier agreements to secure favorable pricing, strong service levels, and compliance with company expectations.
- Design and standardize bid packages, scopes of work, and purchasing documents across categories such as cabinetry, electrical, roofing, countertops, and plumbing.
- Roll out purchasing initiatives across regions and monitor adoption to ensure programs are followed consistently.
- Create and update procurement policies, procedures, and qualification standards to support efficient and controlled buying practices.
- Build, organize, and maintain vendor and subcontractor records, including oversight of preferred supplier listings and regional coverage.
- Establish onboarding criteria for new vendors by evaluating pricing, references, capabilities, and service territories.
- Expand sourcing channels by identifying and qualifying new suppliers each year to strengthen competition, reduce risk, and improve supply options.
- Partner with operations, development, and sustainability stakeholders to align purchasing decisions with specifications, standards, and business requirements.
- Manage supplier contracts, track rebate-related activity, and prepare cost comparison reports to support purchasing decisions.
- Stay informed on market conditions and industry developments by participating in networking events and maintaining awareness of trends affecting affordable housing procurement. Requirements
- Demonstrated experience in purchasing, procurement, or strategic sourcing, including supplier negotiations and contract oversight.
- Strong knowledge of purchasing operations, planning methods, and policy development.
- Ability to create structured bid materials, evaluate supplier proposals, and support standardized buying practices.
- Experience managing vendor relationships, supplier qualification processes, and preferred vendor programs.
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to compare costs, review purchasing data, and identify savings opportunities.
- Proven ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and communicate professionally with vendors and internal stakeholders.
- Familiarity with procurement needs related to property operations, facilities categories, or similar maintenance-driven environments.
- Flexibility to work additional hours when needed to meet deadlines and business priorities.