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Strategic Purchasing Manager Jobs in Rhode Island

... purchasing managers, and senior operations teams. * Partner closely with internal teams, including ... product strategy. Innovation and Market Intelligence: * Identify new product development ...

Purchasing Specialist

Bristol, RI ยท On-site

$23 - $28/hr

Maintain relationships and manage purchasing for a small group of assigned vendors * Run and analyze purchasing metrics (e.g., fill rate, GMROI, aged inventory) to support strategy * Monitor ...

The Sourcing Specialist will report to the Sourcing Team Manager as part of the Sourcing Group ... Put in place contracts for strategic purchases. Maintaining close relations with the industry ...

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Strategic Purchasing Manager information

What does a strategic purchasing manager do?

A Strategic Purchasing Manager is responsible for overseeing the procurement process and developing strategies to ensure the organization sources goods and services efficiently and cost-effectively. They analyze market trends, negotiate with suppliers, and build strong relationships to secure the best terms. Their role often includes managing budgets, evaluating supplier performance, and working closely with other departments to align purchasing strategies with overall business goals. Ultimately, Strategic Purchasing Managers help organizations optimize their supply chains and maintain a competitive edge.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a strategic purchasing manager?

To thrive as a Strategic Purchasing Manager, you need expertise in procurement strategies, contract negotiation, supplier management, and often a degree in supply chain management or business. Familiarity with ERP systems, sourcing platforms, and relevant certifications such as CPSM (Certified Professional in Supply Management) are highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, communication, and leadership skills set top performers apart in this role. These skills are crucial for optimizing costs, ensuring supply chain resilience, and driving value for the organization.

How does a strategic purchasing manager typically collaborate with other departments within an organization?

A Strategic Purchasing Manager regularly works cross-functionally with various departments such as production, finance, and logistics to ensure sourcing strategies align with organizational goals. They coordinate with engineering and product teams to understand specific material requirements, partner with finance to manage budgets and cost-saving initiatives, and communicate with logistics to optimize supply chain efficiency. Effective collaboration is essential for negotiating contracts, maintaining supplier relationships, and resolving supply issues promptly. This role often serves as a bridge between internal stakeholders and external suppliers to drive value and mitigate risks.

What is the difference between Strategic Purchasing Manager vs Purchasing Agent?

AspectStrategic Purchasing ManagerPurchasing Agent
CredentialsBachelor's degree in supply chain, business, or related field; certifications like CPSMHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer certifications
Work EnvironmentStrategic planning, vendor negotiations, procurement strategy developmentOrder processing, supplier communication, purchase execution
Industry UsageUsed across manufacturing, retail, logistics for long-term procurement planningCommon in retail, wholesale, and manufacturing for day-to-day purchasing

The Strategic Purchasing Manager focuses on developing procurement strategies and managing supplier relationships, often overseeing large contracts and long-term planning. In contrast, the Purchasing Agent handles the execution of purchase orders and supplier communication. Both roles are essential in supply chain operations but differ in scope and strategic involvement.

What are popular job titles related to Strategic Purchasing Manager jobs in Rhode Island?

For Strategic Purchasing Manager jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Strategic Purchasing Manager jobs in Rhode Island look for?

The top searched job categories for Strategic Purchasing Manager jobs in Rhode Island are:

What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Strategic Purchasing Manager jobs?

Cities in Rhode Island with the most Strategic Purchasing Manager job openings:

Purchasing and Inventory Manager

West Warwick, RI โ€ข On-site

NATCO Products Corp
Retailย โ€ขย 201 - 500 employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Move into a job designed for you!

Join our team and be a part of the Natco family.

As a fourth-generation family-run business, Natco Home is one of the largest and most respected privately owned home furnishings companies in North America.

At Natco, surpassing our customers’ expectations in quality, service, and value is over a 100-year tradition. A commitment to innovation is woven into our future.

An inspired career path awaits.

Come see for yourself, there is no place like Natco Home.

What we need:

Natco is seeking an experienced Purchasing and Inventory Manager to join our Supply Chain team at our West Warwick, RI headquarters. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, this role will lead inventory planning, purchasing, and replenishment activities across multiple business units, with a primary focus on Walmart U.S., Walmart.com, and Walmart Canada programs. The successful candidate will also lead, coach, and develop a Purchasing and Inventory team while partnering cross-functionally to support inventory optimization, customer satisfaction, and business growth.

What you’ll do:

  • Supervise, coach, and develop purchasing and inventory planning team members 
  • Lead inventory planning and replenishment activities for Walmart U.S., Walmart.com, and Walmart Canada programs 
  • Execute and manage purchasing strategies based on forecasts, inventory levels, customer demand, supplier lead times, and business objectives 
  • Monitor inventory performance to maintain appropriate stock levels while minimizing out-of-stock and excess inventory 
  • Analyze sales trends, forecasts, promotional activity, and supply chain risks to drive informed purchasing decisions 
  • Create and manage domestic and international purchase orders and oversee supplier communications 
  • Collaborate with vendors, freight partners, and internal teams to ensure timely product availability and resolve supply chain issues 
  • Track inventory across multiple warehouses and identify opportunities for inventory optimization and operational efficiencies 
  • Partner with cross-functional stakeholders to support customer requirements, improve forecasting accuracy, and drive business growth
  • Perform all other projects or duties as directed by the Chief Operating Officer 

What you’ll have:

  • Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Logistics, Operations, Finance, or a related field preferred; equivalent experience will be considered 
  • 5+ years of experience in purchasing, inventory planning, supply chain, procurement, demand planning, or a related field preferred
  • 2+ years of leadership or supervisory experience 
  • Demonstrated experience managing inventory forecasting, replenishment planning, purchasing, and vendor relationships 
  • Experience with ERP, inventory management, and purchasing systems 
  • Experience supporting large retail customers, import purchasing, international supply chains, and complex replenishment programs 
  • Walmart inventory planning, forecasting, Retail Link, Inventory Insights, or supplier management experience strongly preferred

 What you’re good at: 

  • Proven ability to lead teams and prioritize competing demands in a fast-paced environment 
  • Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to make data-driven decisions 
  • Advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including pivot tables, VLOOKUPs, and inventory analysis 
  • Excellent communication and relationship-building skills 
  • Strong attention to detail and organizational skills 
  • Ability to proactively identify risks, solve problems, and improve processes 
  • Customer-focused mindset with experience managing vendor and stakeholder relationships

APPLY TODAY! 

To be considered, please complete an online application. 

Come Home to Natco. 

Natco is pleased to offer comprehensive employee benefits to protect your health, support your family, and enhance your lifestyle. 

Our Benefits Package Features:

  • Paid Time Off & Paid Holidays
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision
  • Health Reimbursement Account (HRA)
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Employer Paid Life Insurance
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Match

Natco Home, a fourth-generation family-owned business, proudly carries a legacy as one of the most respected and trusted names in the home furnishings industry. Established in 1917 in Rhode Island, Natco is one of the largest privately owned home furnishings companies in North America, with a robust distribution network spanning across the continent. Serving as a comprehensive home fashion resource, the Natco Home Group's exceptional product line-up of rugs, vinyl flooring, curtains, window treatments, and home décor products are available through major mass merchandisers, home centers, department stores, and clubs, not only in the United States, Canada, and Mexico but also in various other regions around the world. With a rich history in consumer goods manufacturing and a strong commitment to eco-friendly materials, Natco continues to adapt its product offerings to remain aligned with ever-evolving customer demands and market trends. Committed to innovation, Natco continues to venture into new product lines, solidifying its position as a leader in the industry. 

Natco is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to an inclusive workplace.