Senior Planner​/Buyer, Manufacturing

Position: Senior Planner/Buyer, Contract Manufacturing
JOB SUMMARY

The Senior Planner/Buyer, Contract Manufacturing is appointed to their position by the Supervisor, Contract Manufacturing Supply Chain. The Senior Planner/Buyer, Contract Manufacturing is a salaried, exempt position. The Senior Planner/Buyer, Contract Manufacturing is responsible for managing the end-to-end supply chain activities for contract manufactured products. This role ensures optimal inventory levels, efficient production planning, and timely product availability while maintaining strong supplier partnerships and driving continuous improvement across cost, quality, and service.

The position collaborates cross-functionally with Marketing, Sales, Quality, R&D, Regulatory, and Distribution teams to support new product introductions, maintain production schedules, and uphold company standards for performance and compliance.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Analyze inventory levels for contract manufactured finished goods, work-in-process (WIP), and related primary and secondary packaging materials.

Create and manage purchase orders in alignment with Demand and MRP Plans to ensure product availability while minimizing excess and obsolescence risk.

Maintain and update the Master Production Schedule for designated contract manufactured items

Build and strengthen partnerships with designated contract manufacturers, ensuring accountability for performance, quality, and service excellence.

Monitor supplier performance, lead times, backorders, investigations, and delivery commitments, proactively addressing risks to prevent or minimize out-of-stock situations.

Review pricing updates and purchase price variances to identify opportunities for cost reduction and process improvement.

Plan and coordinate component shipments to contract manufacturers, ensuring accurate documentation and alignment with distribution center operations.

Create and manage Bills of Material (BOMs) for all assigned contract manufacturers, ensuring proper routing and approval within Master Control.

Maintain organized and up-to-date records of pricing, supplier data, and contracts to enable timely and accurate access to information.

Review and approve invoices in accordance with company policies and financial controls.

Prepare and distribute monthly forecast updates to key stakeholders as required.

Collaborate with Quality, R&D, and Regulatory teams to plan and execute line trials for new materials or validate new projects as assigned.

Partner with Marketing and cross-functional teams to support new product innovations, ensuring timely commercialization and seamless supply chain readiness for product launches.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Performs and assumes other duties and responsibilities, as may be required by the Supervisor, Contract Manufacturing Supply Chain.

Keep the Supervisor, Contract Manufacturing Supply Chain duly informed of all activities, including significant problems and achievements.

Supports cGMP, the Winner's Circle, and the Blistex Quality System.

REQUIRED EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS

A bachelor's degree in Operations or Supply Chain Management, or related discipline; or equivalent training and experience is required; MBA or advanced degree is a plus.

Minimum of 5+ years of progressive experience in supply chain planning, procurement, or production management, with a strong focus on contract manufacturing operations.

Proven track record managing third-party or outsourced manufacturing relationships, including planning, procurement, and performance management.

Experience with in consumer packaged goods (CPG), food, pharmaceutical, or other regulated manufacturing industries preferred.

Strong understanding of MRP, Demand Planning, and inventory management principles.

Proven ability to manage and negotiate with contract manufacturers and suppliers to achieve business objectives.

Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills with strong attention to detail.

Proficiency in ERP systems; experience with SAP S/4

HANA and SAP IBP is highly desirable.

APICS CSCP certification (or equivalent) is a plus.

Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate across departments and influence…