The Director of Purchasing will be responsible for developing and implementing strategic procurement plans to ensure Florida East Coast Railway (FECR) obtains goods, materials and services for the best possible price.  This position is also responsible for reporting on parts and materials expenses so FECR’s services can be priced correctly and positively impact the organization’s operations, profit and growth potential. 

• Manage the purchasing process from the Request for Proposal (RFP) stage through delivery
• Formulate policies and procedures for bid proposals and procurement of goods and services Source new suppliers to ensure all goods, materials and services are satisfying company needs and offered at competitive pricing
• Establish relationships with vendors and suppliers for future needs, to include visiting plants and distribution centers to gain insight into products, services and prices
• Negotiate, renegotiate, and administer contracts with suppliers, and other representatives
• Confer with staff, users, and suppliers to discuss defective or unacceptable goods or services and determine corrective action
• Prepare purchase orders, solicit bid proposals, and review requisitions for goods and services
• Monitor changes affecting supply and demand, tracking market conditions, price trends, or futures markets
• Review and analyze supply chain processes within the organization to reduce waste and errors
• Monitor and follow applicable laws and regulations
• Supervise a staff of buyers and purchasing managers
• Miscellaneous activities and responsibilities as assigned by department leader

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, preferably with an emphasis in Engineering, Economics, Supply Chain or Mathematics
• 5 or more years of experience required in Purchasing / Procurement, Supply Chain or Manufacturing field

 PREFERRED QUALIFICATION:

• Master’s degree from an accredited institution
• Experience in process mapping, Kaizen event leadership or Lean Six Sigma certification
• Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP)
• Certified Professional Purchasing Manager (CPPM)

KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS:

• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Outstanding interpersonal skills and the ability to interact across different levels of the organization and with external clients
• Ability to coordinate multiple group efforts within the company to achieve objectives
• Maintain working technical knowledge of goods and services to be purchased
• Exceptional facilitation, presentation, negotiation and collaboration skills
• Strong strategic thinking and analytical skills
• Planning, organization, decision-making and multi-tasking abilities
• Ability to schedule and manage people and projects in order to meet deadlines
• Microsoft Office

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Up to 25% travel required
• Employee must occasionally lift and / or move up to 50 pounds
• Frequently required to stand, sit, climb, stoop, and kneel
• May be exposed to fumes, airborne particles, toxic or corrosive chemicals
• May be required to work outdoors in the elements
• Noise level is moderate, but could become loud when performing duties in the field
• Employee is occasionally exposed to high places and will be required to climb and balance
• Valid driver’s license
• The applicant selected for this position will be required to successfully complete a background check and drug test
• Passing results must be received prior to start date in new position