Procurement and Inbound Logistics Specialist (Manufacturing)

About the role:

The Procurement and Inbound Logistics Specialist supports manufacturing operations by managing vendor relationships and ensuring the efficient flow of inbound materials using ERP systems such as SAP and Oracle. This role focuses on supplier performance, timely material availability, and seamless coordination between procurement and logistics to minimize production disruptions and optimize costs.

Key Responsibilities:

Procurement – Vendor Relations (Manufacturing Focus):

• Develop and maintain strategic relationships with suppliers of raw materials, components, and production-related services.
• Serve as the primary liaison between vendors and internal manufacturing, planning, and quality teams.
• Conduct regular supplier reviews and drive corrective actions for quality or delivery issues impacting production.
• Proactively manage supply risks, including shortages, capacity constraints, and geopolitical or market disruptions.
• Ensure suppliers comply with industry standards, safety regulations, and company quality requirements (e.g., ISO standards).
• Maintain accurate supplier master data, contracts, and sourcing information within ERP systems.

Inbound Logistics:

• Plan and coordinate inbound shipments of raw materials and components to support production schedules.
• Track shipments and ensure on-time delivery to manufacturing plants or warehouses.
• Work with carriers, freight forwarders, and customs brokers to manage domestic and international shipments.
• Resolve issues related to delays, damages, or discrepancies to prevent production downtime.
• Optimize transportation methods and inbound logistics costs while maintaining service levels.
• Oversee goods receipt processes and ensure accurate inventory updates in ERP systems.
• Manage documentation including bills of lading, packing lists, and customs clearance paperwork.

ERP Systems (SAP & Oracle):

• Utilize SAP and/or Oracle ERP systems for purchase order creation, vendor master management, and inventory tracking.
• Monitor and update inbound delivery schedules and goods receipts within ERP platforms.
• Generate and analyze procurement and logistics reports (e.g., supplier performance, inventory levels, lead times).
• Ensure data accuracy and integrity across procurement and logistics transactions.
• Support system improvements, automation initiatives, and process standardization within ERP environments.

Cross-Functional Coordination:

• Collaborate closely with production planning, inventory control, and quality assurance teams.
• Align procurement activities with production schedules and material requirements planning (MRP).
• Support demand forecasting by providing supplier insights and lead-time data.
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance supply chain efficiency and reduce downtime risks.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience in procurement, vendor management, or inbound logistics within a manufacturing environment.
• Hands-on experience with SAP and/or Oracle ERP systems (MM, PP, or SCM modules preferred).
• Strong understanding of manufacturing supply chains, MRP processes, and inventory control.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and supplier relationship management skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Vendor relationship management and collaboration
• Manufacturing supply chain knowledge
• ERP proficiency (SAP & Oracle)
• Problem-solving and decision-making under pressure
• Analytical and data-driven mindset
• Attention to detail and operational efficiency