Associate Buyer

Illinois Tool Works · Appleton

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Job Description:

Miller Electric, an ITW Company, is seeking an Associate Buyer to join the Welding, Accessories and Cutting team. Are you a change-maker with a passion for leadership and supply chain strategy? In this role, you will leverage your strong interpersonal skills to lead, coordinate, and support critical supply chain initiatives for the Welding Accessories & Cutting Division. From tactical execution to strategic planning, you'll drive continuous improvement with our suppliers and manufacturing teams—all while aligning with the broader goals of the ITW Welding Group Companies.

How you will make an impact:

Manage the supply chain

• Own activities related to procurement, storage, and shipment of materials
• Document and celebrate all cost savings and avoidances
• Manage material price variance, boost inventory turns, and lead cost-reduction programs
• Align supplier schedules with real-time material requirements (MRD adjustments)
• Hit MOH targets and keep "non-active" inventory under control
• Manage raw materials during exciting new product transitions
• Spearhead strategic sourcing and resourcing projects across the division
• Collaborate daily with operations, product, and engineering teams

Develop vendor relationships

• Take the lead on vendor negotiations—price, delivery, and quality compliance
• Build and manage a robust supplier base
• Cultivate strong, collaborative relationships with key vendors (not just transactional!)
• Conduct impactful supplier visits, evaluations, and quality audits

Make strategic decisions that matter

• Champion cost, quality, delivery, productivity, and simplification initiatives
• Lead continuous improvement projects
• Drive proactive resolution through the Corrective Action Request process

Position Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Operations/Supply Chain/Business Management required
• Has at least one year of experience in materials or supply chain
• Proven track record of setting and accomplishing short and long term strategy and goals
• Ability to work in a fast paced environment
• Must be a self-starter, conscientious, and enthusiastic with a positive attitude
• Demonstrated competency in prioritization and analytical skills
• Demonstrated excellence in the following skills: communication and negotiation
• Ability to embrace, build and promote a team environment
• Excellent leadership, interpersonal, and time management skills
• Excellent computer skills (Microsoft Office package)
• Must be willing to travel as needed

ITW is an equal opportunity employer. We value our colleagues’ unique perspectives, experiences and ideas and create workplaces where everyone can develop their careers and perform to their full potential. 

As an equal employment opportunity employer, ITW is committed to equal employment opportunity and fair treatment for employees, beginning with the hiring process and continuing through all aspects of the employment relationship. 

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected Veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.  

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