Senior Purchasing & Inventory Specialist

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Title: Senior Purchasing & Inventory Specialist                                         

Reports To: Senior Director, AP & Global Supply Chain

Department: Supply Chain NA

Based in: Plymouth, MI

Travel Requirements: 10-15%

ABOUT CHRYSAN INDUSTRIES

Chrysan Industries is a growing, global company that develops, manufactures, packages, and distributes specialty fluid and chemical solutions for leading Automotive OEMs and Tier 1 Automotive Suppliers. We combine technical expertise, flexible manufacturing, and strong customer and supplier partnerships to solve complex supply chain challenges and keep our customers’ operations running reliably every day. Chrysan also supplies the OES Aftermarket channel, supporting dealerships and service centers for major OEMs globally with multiple products and providing diversification.

At Chrysan, we are expanding our capabilities, strengthening our global footprint, and building processes to support our next phase of growth. We are an organization that values teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement, where individuals can make a meaningful impact on the business. Chrysan began operations 1977 and is rapidly approaching its 50^th anniversary in 2027, growing into the future with a great team.

IMPACT & OPPORTUNITY

At Chrysan, you'll have the opportunity to take ownership of both purchasing and inventory management in a collaborative, hands-on environment. Rather than being responsible for a single piece of the supply chain, you'll gain broad exposure to sourcing, supplier management, inventory control, planning, operations, and financial performance.

This role is ideal for an individual who enjoys making a measurable impact, working cross-functionally, and helping build scalable processes that support business growth. Your decisions will directly contribute to supply continuity, customer service, operational efficiency, and profitability.

JOB SUMMARY

The role is responsible for managing procurement and inventory activities to support production, customer demand, and day-to-day business operations. This position ensures the timely and cost-effective availability of raw materials, finished fluids, operating supplies, and services while maintaining appropriate inventory levels and supply continuity. The role manages assigned supplier relationships, sourcing and quotation activities, purchasing data, inventory performance, and supplier risk, while collaborating with Plant Operations, Sales, Customer Service, Quality, Finance, and other Supply Chain team members to improve planning, control costs, and maintain accurate system records.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Production and In-House Inventory Management:

· Review parts in the MRP system daily to maintain appropriate safety-stock levels.

· Release orders promptly based on inventory minimums, production schedules, and customer forecasts.

· Review parts and supply requirements with Sales, Customer Service, and Plant teams to improve planning and customer demand forecasts.

· Follow up with suppliers on open orders and expedite shipments as needed.

· Review expired, obsolete, and slow-moving inventory and provide reporting recommendations for Quality, Sales, and Operations.

· Conduct routine inventory audits and support cycle count activities to maintain inventory accuracy.

· Establish and monitor inventory-related Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), including inventory turns, inventory accuracy, stockout rates, and service levels.

Procurement and Supplier Management:

· Identify qualified suppliers based on business needs and conduct supplier visits as needed.

· Prepare and issue RFIs/RFQs; solicit, analyze, and negotiate quotations.

· Identify cost-saving and cost-avoidance opportunities.

· Maintain accurate and timely supplier data and pricing information in PLEX.

· Recommend suppliers to Account Managers based on total cost.

· Evaluate assigned supplier KPIs/Scorecards and issue scorecards semiannually.

· Manage assigned supplier relationships and maintain clear communication.

· Review new requisitions for completeness and enter approved requisitions into the company financial system.

· Identify supplier risks and develop mitigation strategies to ensure supply continuity.

Support/Coordinate with Other Team Members:

· Cross-train with other Supply Chain team members to provide backup coverage.

· Coordinate with the Small Packaging Business Manager on managing shared suppliers and inventory.

· Provide data to Sales for quarterly customer pricing updates.

· Work with Accounts Payable to resolve any supplier invoice accuracy issues.

· Work with Finance and Plant teams to reconcile PLEX records with actual costs.

· Work with the Quality team to qualify suppliers as needed.

· Assist with Gross Profit reporting and analysis as needed.

Other Tasks:

· Maintain appropriate work instructions, understand departmental risk assessments, and ensure compliance with Chrysan’s QMS.

· Manage facility maintenance contractors and related supplier services.

· Conduct routine walk-throughs of the Plant, Warehouse, and Office to inspect inventory and replenish supplies.

· Perform other related duties as assigned.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS:

· Education: Bachelor’s degree or higher; a major in Supply Chain Management is preferred.

· Experience: Minimum of three years of experience in a related field.

· Language Proficiency: Fluency in English required; Korean language skill is a plus.

· Technical Proficiency: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite required; experience with data analysis and PLEX preferred.

COMPETENCIES:

· Effective Communication: Communicates clearly and professionally in verbal and written formats.

· Data Analysis & Reporting: Use analytical tools to identify cost drivers, trends and use data to generate meaningful reports to support decision making.

· Continuous Learning: Actively seeks opportunities to grow and acquire new skills.

· Attention to Detail: Maintains accuracy and thoroughness in all tasks.

· Cost Consciousness: Works within approved budgets, implements cost-saving measures, and conserves company resources.

· Time Management: Prioritizes work effectively and meets deadlines.

· Initiative: Anticipates needs and takes action to address tasks and solve problems.

· Independence and Self-Discipline: Works productively with minimal supervision.

· Problem Solving: Applies strong analytical skills and sound judgment to resolve issues.

· Collaboration and Integrity: Works effectively with others, demonstrates honesty, and listens actively.

· Interpersonal and Negotiation Skills: Builds strong, trust-based relationships and leverages advanced negotiation skills to achieve favorable business outcomes.