Analysis Skills, Business Plan, Cargo/Freight, Communication Skills, Construction, Continuous Improvement, Cost Control, Cross-Functional, Customer Support/Service, ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning), Forecasting, Inventory Estimates, Inventory Management, Inventory Planning, Leadership, Mentoring, Negotiation Skills, Partner Sales, People Management, Performance Management, Pricing, Process Improvement, Procurement Management, Product Costing, Product Pricing, Product Strategy, Purchase Orders, Purchasing/Procurement, Sales Operations, Sourcing Strategy, Stock Keeping Unit (SKU), Supply Chain, Team Lead/Manager, Variable Costs, Vendor/Supplier Management, Vendor/Supplier Relations, Vendor/Supplier Selection
Buyer – Fastening (Leadership Track)
Location: Westfield, IN
Department: Fastening / Construction Group
Reports To: Purchasing Leadership
Position Overview
This is not a traditional Buyer role. We are seeking a high-potential procurement professional who wants to accelerate into leadership.
The Buyer – Fastening will take ownership of a key product category within our fastening/construction business, driving sourcing strategy, inventory performance, and vendor partnerships. This individual will be developed with the expectation of growing into a leadership role overseeing the purchasing function, including managing a team of buyers.
If you’re looking for a role where your decisions directly impact the business—and where strong performance leads to rapid advancement—this is that opportunity.
What Makes This Role Different
- Clear path to leadership – strong performers will be positioned to manage a team of 4 buyers
- High visibility – direct impact on cost, margins, and service levels
- Ownership mindset – autonomy to make decisions and influence strategy
- Growth-focused environment – we value initiative, accountability, and leadership potential
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Sourcing & Ownership
- Own vendor relationships, pricing strategy, and sourcing decisions within assigned fastening categories
- Negotiate cost, freight, and rebate structures to improve margins
- Identify opportunities for supplier consolidation, product substitution, and cost reduction
Inventory & Business Performance
- Manage inventory with a focus on service levels, turns, and working capital
- Use data and forecasting tools to make proactive purchasing decisions
- Take accountability for category performance and continuous improvement
Leadership Development
- Demonstrate leadership through decision-making, accountability, and cross-functional influence
- Mentor and support team members as opportunities arise
- Prepare to transition into a formal leadership role overseeing the purchasing team
Cross-Functional Impact
- Partner closely with sales, operations, and customer service to drive business results
- Provide guidance on pricing, availability, and product strategy
- Communicate effectively during supply disruptions and demand shifts
Execution & Process Discipline
- Ensure accuracy and efficiency in purchase orders, vendor data, and ERP systems
- Continuously improve purchasing processes and workflows
- Act with urgency to resolve supply chain challenges
What We’re Looking For
Required
- 3–6+ years of experience in purchasing, procurement, or supply chain
- Proven ability to own decisions and drive results, not just execute tasks
- Strong negotiation and vendor management skills
- Analytical mindset with the ability to translate data into action
- High level of accountability and initiative
Preferred
- Experience in fasteners, construction products, or industrial distribution
- Exposure to inventory planning in a high-SKU environment
- Demonstrated leadership potential (informal or formal)
Who You Are
- You’re ready to move beyond being “just a buyer” and take on broader ownership
- You think like a business partner, not just a transactional purchaser
- You want a fast track to leadership, not a static role
- You’re comfortable being held accountable for results—and recognized for them
Growth Path
Successful performance in this role is expected to lead to:
- Leadership responsibility over the purchasing team (4 buyers)
- Increased involvement in strategic sourcing and business planning
- Expanded decision-making authority and organizational influence