Operational Buyer

Ideal Candidate Profile - Procurement (Direct Materials Sourcing)
Procurement professional with 5+ years of experience in direct materials sourcing within manufacturing organizations, managing significant annual spend (>INR 10 Crores). Strong expertise in supplier management, RFQ processes, cost analysis, market intelligence, procurement operations, and supplier negotiations. Demonstrated track record of delivering savings, developing alternate sources, supporting NPD initiatives, and partnering effectively with factories and suppliers to ensure reliable supply and operational excellence. Experience with ERP systems and e-sourcing platforms such as GEP Smart or Coupa is highly desirable. Candidates with stable career progression and limited job changes will be preferred.
1. Experience & Industry Background
Minimum 5+ years of relevant experience in Procurement/Sourcing, preferably within a manufacturing organization.
Experience managing annual direct material spend exceeding INR 10 Crores.
Preference for candidates with a stable career history and limited job changes, demonstrating commitment and continuity.
Exposure to medium-sized manufacturing businesses with cross-functional stakeholder management.
Direct Materials Sourcing Expertise
Strong experience in direct materials procurement and sourcing, handling a diverse supplier portfolio.
Proven ability to understand business requirements and translate them into effective material sourcing and procurement strategies.
Good understanding of material value chains, cost structures, and key cost drivers to support informed buying decisions.
Experience in identifying and developing alternate suppliers, supplier qualification, and supporting new product development (NPD) initiatives.
Market Intelligence & Cost Management
Ability to monitor and analyze material price trends, commodity movements, and market dynamics using available market intelligence tools, subscriptions, and supplier networks.
Demonstrated track record of delivering cost savings initiatives, value engineering opportunities, supplier consolidation programs, and procurement optimization projects.
Experience negotiating improved commercial terms, including pricing, payment terms, and supply agreements.
Strategic Sourcing & Procurement Processes
Hands-on experience managing end-to-end RFQ/RFP sourcing activities, supplier evaluation, bid analysis, and commercial negotiations.
Proficiency in e-Sourcing platforms such as GEP Smart, Coupa, or similar procurement tools will be a strong advantage.
Strong understanding of strategic sourcing methodologies and supplier relationship management.
Procurement Operations & Supply Chain Collaboration
Comprehensive exposure to Procurement Operations, including:
PR to PO process management
Purchase order administration
Supplier performance management
Delivery tracking and expediting
Inventory and material availability coordination
Resolution of supplier quality and service issues
Experience working closely with manufacturing plants/factories, planning teams, quality teams, and suppliers to ensure uninterrupted material availability.
Systems & Tools
Strong working knowledge of ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics, or equivalent.
Familiarity with procurement analytics, reporting tools, and supplier management systems.
Negotiation & Stakeholder Management
Ability to independently lead supplier negotiations and secure competitive outcomes on:
Price
Delivery schedules
Payment terms
Contractual conditions
Strong stakeholder management and cross-functional collaboration skills.
Effective communication and relationship-building capabilities with suppliers and internal business teams.
Key Competencies
Strategic sourcing mindset
Commercial acumen
Cost management and savings orientation
Market intelligence and analytical skills
Supplier development and relationship management
Problem-solving and execution focus
Negotiation and influencing skills
Strong ownership and accountability

Work arrangement
No