A Buyer buys products, materials or services needed by a company or organization. Manages inventory and schedule for purchasing, works with vendors and negotiates contracts, monitors quality of supplies and services purchased. May work in farm products, manufacturing, trade or services industries.
Auxiliaries & Services Purchasing Buyer - USA (Homer / Plymouth (one day a wk in Homer, MI) Role Summary The position is responsible for managing a defined group of Auxiliaries & Services sub-categories for the Homer, MI plant. The role operates in a fast-paced, highly demanding manufacturing environment and requires a high level of autonomy, ownership, and professional maturity.
The candidate will:
Own the purchasing activities for assigned Auxiliaries & Services sub-categories, ensuring continuity of supply, cost competitiveness, quality, and service. Work in close coordination with Global Purchasing, Plant Operations, Quality, Logistics, and Finance. Develop and implement sourcing strategies aligned with plant needs and global guidelines. Build, manage, and continuously develop a robust supplier base in the USA in line with direction from the Auxiliary & Services Coordinator and Global Commodity Management. Identify sourcing risks and opportunities, proactively proposing mitigation and improvement actions. Operate with regular exposure to plant and purchasing leadership, requiring confidence in decision-making and communication. Professional Qualifications & Experience 5-8 years of solid experience in MRO / Auxiliaries & Services purchasing within complex and structured purchasing organizations. Experience in automotive or similarly demanding industrial environments. Strong understanding of purchasing best practices, sourcing strategies, and supplier management. Proven ability to work effectively in global and cross-functional organizations. Demonstrated experience operating under pressure and managing multiple priorities simultaneously.
Education / Languages
Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Manufacturing, Finance, Business, or a related field. Knowledge of additional languages is considered a plus. Personal Attributes Strong negotiation, influencing, and communication skills. High level of autonomy and accountability. Ability to handle direct, challenging discussions with stakeholders while maintaining confidence and professionalism. Results-driven mindset with strong problem-solving capabilities. Ability to build and maintain effective relationships with internal stakeholders and suppliers. Resilience, tenacity, and comfort operating in a fast-paced, performance-driven environment. Strong sense of ownership and team collaboration.
