Indirect Buyer
Schweitzer-Mauduit International, Inc. (SWM) is a multinational, diversified engineered materials company which conduct business and operates worldwide including : Brazil, China, France, Luxemburg, Poland, and the United States. We are proud to serve customers who make a world of difference in the markets they operate in, and the products they improve. Every day, our papers are used in a diverse range of applications and industries around the world.
Our employees share a passion for our products, customers, and the success of our organization. We generate the ideas, create the innovative solutions, manufacture the products, and deliver the services that have made SWM a global leader for decades. We are problem solvers, innovators, and manufacturing experts.
Job Summary
Reports to : Supply Chain Manager
The Indirect Buyer will be responsible for managing indirect procurement activities across our manufacturing facilities. This role requires expertise in sourcing, negotiating, and managing contracts for categories such as energy, MRO, warehousing, and capital expenditures. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong analytical skills, supplier relationship management, and a strategic approach to cost savings and compliance.
Principal Responsibilities :
- Develop and execute procurement strategies aligned with business objectives to drive cost savings, mitigate risk, and enhance supplier performance.
- Lead energy procurement initiatives including electricity and renewable energy contracts.
- Monitor market trends and regulatory changes affecting energy and utilities.
- Identify, evaluate, and onboard suppliers to meet quality, cost, and delivery requirements.
- Analyze spend data to identify cost savings and drive continuous improvement.
- Ensure compliance with company policies, legal requirements, and sustainability goals.
- Negotiate contracts and commercial terms to ensure favorable conditions and budget adherence.
- Manage supplier relationships to ensure timely, cost-effective procurement and long-term value.
- Oversee strategic energy procurement, including hedging and cost-avoidance strategies.
- Monitor supplier performance through KPI's, audits, reviews, and corrective action plans.
- Foster long-term partnerships with strategic partners.
- Collaborate with global and cross-functional teams to leverage synergies and share best practices.
- Execute procurement activities, including issuing purchase orders and ensuring accurate delivery and invoicing.
- Prepare reports for leadership on procurement performance and cost savings.
- Support budgeting and forecasting for indirect spend categories.
- Advise internal stakeholders of procurement best practices and provide support as needed.
- Lead cost-out and continuous improvement projects in collaboration with internal and external partners.
- Education & Experience
Required Education & Skills :
Bachelor's degree in business, Supply Chain, or a related fieldMinimum of 5 years of experience in procurement in a manufacturing environment, with a focus on indirect categories3-5 years of proven experience in indirect procurement in a manufacturing environment with strong category expertise (energy, MRO, CapEx, etc.)Demonstrated success in negotiation and contract management, with measurable cost savingsStrong communication and stakeholder engagement skills; able to influence across all levelsAbility to evaluate and manage supplier performance, including audits and corrective action processesStrategic thinker with strong analytical skills to identify and act on sourcing opportunitiesSolid understanding of relevant government regulations and procurement proceduresProven experience in energy procurement and sustainability initiatives.SWM International is an Equal Opportunity Employer. SWM International prohibits Discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in employment based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including same sex); pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; age; disability or handicap; marital status; citizenship status; veteran status; or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law