Purchasing Manager

Description

Who We Are

At Thos. Moser, we care deeply about the products we make. In our shop, you’ll be an instrumental member of a team of world-class makers. Heirloom quality furniture is not made on an assembly line, and it doesn’t happen by accident. There is great intention and pride in our uncompromising quality, enduring beauty, and celebration of time-honored craft. If that sounds like something you’d like to be a part of, right here in Auburn, ME – we welcome you to apply.

Role Purpose

The Purchasing Manager is responsible for all purchasing activities to ensure the timely, cost-effective, and high-quality supply of raw materials, components, services and supplies critical to manufacturing operations. This position reports to the Director of Supply Chain, in a role that focuses on procurement practices, supplier relations, and inventory management across all categories. 

What You’ll Do

This is a high visibility and collaborative role, regularly interfacing with scheduling, engineering, and production teams. You’re also the go-to-person for everything from office supplies, janitorial items and facilities maintenance. Whether you’re working with internal customers or outside vendors, communication skills are key in this position. The Purchasing Manager is the face of the company to many of our suppliers and takes initiative and pride in making sure everyone has what they need, when they need it. 

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Procurement & Sourcing

· Develop and implement procurement strategies aligned with production goals and business objectives.

· Source and negotiate with suppliers of wood, metal, upholstery, hardware, packaging, and other essential materials for furniture production.

· Monitor market trends and proactively manage supply risks.

· Lead cost reduction and value improvement initiatives while ensuring quality standards are maintained.

Supplier Management

· Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and service providers.

· Visit key suppliers periodically, strengthen relationships, aligning expectations, and collaborating on demand planning and forecasting.

· Evaluate supplier performance, monitoring key metrics like quality, delivery, cost, and responsiveness.

Contract & Negotiation Management

· Negotiate pricing, terms, and conditions for material purchases and service contracts.

· Draft, review, and manage supplier agreements to ensure compliance and minimize business risk.

Operational Procurement

· Conduct daily purchasing activities to ensure timely delivery of materials and components that support production schedules.

· Collaborate with Production, Engineering, and Quality teams to align procurement decisions with design specifications and manufacturing needs.

· Manage and optimize purchasing processes within the Epicor ERP system, including purchase orders, approval workflows, and supplier records.

· Problem solve and communicate supply delays or shortages and expedite as needed to minimize production disruptions.

Financial Management & Reporting

· Track and report on key procurement KPIs such as cost savings, inventory turns/accuracy, and supplier performance.

· Support Accounts Payable in researching/resolving invoice discrepancies.

· Provide regular updates to the Director of Supply Chain on market conditions, sourcing challenges, and strategic initiatives.

Leadership & Compliance

· Initiate and attend cross-functional meetings to streamline communication and processes.

· Ensure compliance with internal procurement policies, safety standards, and financial regulations.

· Champion and maintain data hygiene within the ERP system.
 

Requirements

Education & Experience

· Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain or a related field preferred. A combination of education, certification, and experience will be considered. Familiarity with furniture or wood component industry is highly preferred.

· Track record of managing shifting priorities and timelines while maintaining professionalism and excellent communication.

· Strong knowledge of procurement principles, accounting practices, and logistics strategies required.

· Advanced skill level with ERP systems required – Epicor experience preferred.

· Strong skillset in Microsoft Suite of applications (especially Excel).

· Professional certification (e.g., CPIM, CPSM, or CSCP) is a plus.

Skills & Competencies

· Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments.

· Solid understanding of manufacturing workflows and production scheduling.

· Strong analytical skills and the ability to make data-driven decisions.

· Accountable and self-driven. Continuous improvement mindset.

· Detail-oriented, organized, and capable of managing multiple tasks while meeting timelines.

· Ability to think critically and independently resolve routine problems.

· High level of integrity and commitment to ethical procurement practices.

Physical Requirements

· Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.

· Ability to lift, carry or push large/heavy items such as boxes, pallets, or barrels occasionally.

· Travel to supplier sites, trade shows, and manufacturing facilities may be required.