Buyer, Strategic Sourcing

Overview

There’s never been a better time to join Stratus! As the market leader in brand implementation and maintenance, we transform how national brands connect with their customers. From exterior signage & interior branding to site refresh & remodel, from energy & lighting to repair & maintenance solutions, we deliver ideal solutions to meet all our client's branding needs.

From our locations across the country, to our corporate headquarters in Mentor, Ohio, every employee is a stakeholder in Stratus’ success. This environment offers endless career opportunities for individuals with a commitment to customer service, focus on execution and bias for action.

Job Summary: The Strategic Sourcing Buyer is responsible for executing procurement activities related to materials and services from approved suppliers. This role plays a critical part in ensuring production continuity, cost optimization, and timely product availability. The ideal candidate is meticulous, detail-oriented, proactive, and skilled in coordinating supplier interactions and managing purchasing workflows through the ERP system.

Responsibilities

• Analyze production requirements and generate accurate and timely purchase orders (POs) with approved suppliers.
• Enter and maintain PO data within the ERP system; confirm and communicate PO details with suppliers.
• Ensure detailed and accurate communication to internal stakeholders on any pertinent changes and proposed solutions for product orders.
•  Expedite open orders to ensure on-time delivery and prevent material shortages.
•  Review supplier acknowledgments for accuracy, resolving discrepancies as needed.
•  Obtain and evaluate supplier quotes, product specifications, and pricing for new and existing items.
•  Support RFP projects by preparing cost estimates and negotiating competitive pricing and lead times.
• Place emergency or expedited orders as needed to maintain operational flow.
• Collaborate with suppliers to address product quality, specification issues, or delivery concerns.
• Issue debit memos and resolve invoice discrepancies in coordination with Accounts Payable and suppliers.
• Generate procurement and supplier performance reports for internal stakeholders.
• Maintain productive supplier relationships to support ongoing cost and service improvements.
• Partner cross-functionally with Production, Engineering, and Quality to support sourcing and inventory objectives.
• Perform other procurement and administrative duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Associate’s degree or equivalent coursework in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Purchasing/Procurement, or a 2-year degree in a business-related field (preferred). 
• 1–3 years of relevant experience in purchasing, procurement, or materials management.
• Experience with MRP/ERP systems in a manufacturing environment is strongly preferred.

Skills & Competencies

• Proficient in Microsoft Office, especially Excel (pivot tables, VLOOKUP, etc.).
• Strong organizational and time-management skills with keen attention to detail.
• Solid understanding of engineering drawings, Bill of Materials and procurement processes.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to manage supplier interactions.
• Ability to analyze data, manage multiple priorities, and meet tight deadlines.

Physical Requirements

• A typical office environment with prolonged sitting, use of a computer, and light lifting (up to 25 lbs.). Occasional visits to production or warehouse areas may be required.

Work Environment

• Based in a general office setting with collaboration across production and supply chain teams. May involve periodic interaction with manufacturing or supplier partners onsite.

Why Work With Us

• Supportive & Friendly Culture
• Medical, Dental, Vision coverage options
• Flexible Spending & Health Savings Accounts
• Company paid Life Insurance
• 401k with Employer Contribution
• Company paid Short/Long Term Disability
• Generous Paid Time Off program + Holidays
• Career Growth Opportunities and Career Mapping
• Additional perks including Pet Insurance, Employee Assistance Program, Educational Assistance Program (Non-Union employees), Identity Theft Protection, Critical Illness Plans, Commuter Benefits and various employee discount offerings from our Vendors 
• Per diems available when traveling

Pay Range

The salary range for this position is $66,000 to $79,400 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications.

EEO/MFDV