Job Description

At KI, we believe knowing our customers helps us serve them better. We listen. We observe. We understand that each customer has unique needs. So, we pride ourselves on helping our customers make smart furniture decisions by offering expert advice, design options and personalized solutions.Since 1941, we’ve positioned KI as the furniture company that best understands the furniture industry and is committed to providing customers with the smart solutions. By targeting specific markets with solutions for business furniture, university furniture, educational furniture, healthcare furniture and government furniture, we can quickly respond to our customers’ unique needs – including the choice to procure furniture according to what fits their ordering and fulfillment process. That’s why we say we offer far more than furniture. We’re Furnishing Knowledge.

Plans and purchases materials, supplies and services based on supply chain management principles to ensure optimal pricing and terms for KI Canada. Qualifies suppliers, evaluates quotes, and negotiates pricing and terms. Meet goals which are established for cost savings. Responsible for carrier selection, tracking incoming shipments and monitoring supplier quality and performance. Develops and maintains supply chain relationships with current and potential suppliers.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Purchasing and Inventory Control:
• Develop sources of supply and establish cost-effective pricing, quality and timely deliveries
• Resolve problems and discrepancies relating to quality, quantity, delivery and pricing by performing supplier analysis
• Responsible for strategic sourcing as required, contract and supplier management including negotiation and risk management.
• Use strong analytical and communication skills
• Communicate with master scheduling, engineering and production related to all facets of material sourcing – other departments as required
• Leader in their field and act as a coach and take responsibility for special projects
• Participate and/or co-lead in materials management and strategic sourcing/cross-functional projects
• Work in a highly flexible team environment and contribute to the overall team cohesiveness
• Exhibit basic math skills and the ability to organize and manage time appropriately

Other Roles:
• Meet with Suppliers or visits supplier’s facilities as required
• Develop and maintain relationships both internal and external (suppliers, brokers and carriers)
• Attend meetings as required

Supplier Development:
• Notify suppliers of quality concerns and help them to develop root cause identification and corrective action.
• Work with suppliers to identify and implement cost savings ideas (CSI).
• Work with suppliers to ensure goals are being met for on-time performance, quality standards and positive customer experience.

QUALIFICATIONS
Category Requirements
EDUCATION • Post-secondary completion
EXPERIENCE • 2 years of professional experience in Purchasing, inventory management, production planning or related fields
CERTIFICATIONS/
LICENSES

• Overhead crane operator certified (may obtain while in position)
• Forklift operator certified (may obtain while in position)

KNOWLEDGE/
SKILLS/
ABILITIES

• Ability to function within a team environment
• Decision-making skills – analytical thinking
• Good communication both written and oral
• Ability to manage time
• Computer skills – BPCS, Word, Excel, Outlook
• Experience in demand planning, inventory management, logistics, transportation management, and warehouse management
• Experience with procurement and supply chain processes in an MRP environment, (e.g. BPCS)

OTHER SPECIAL (NON-PHYSICAL) REQUIREMENTS
• Ability to act independently
• Willing to take initiative(s) and complete task(s)
• Highly organized
• Problem solver – Analytical skills
• High-stress tolerance
• Ability to develop professional relationships
• Positive attitude

WORKING CONDITIONS
Category Requirements
TRAVEL • Domestic travel up to 5% of the time
PHYSICAL DEMANDS • Ability to maintain seated or standing position and climb stairs on a daily basis
WORK
ENVIRONMENT

• Office environment up to 85% of the time
• Manufacturing environment up to 15% of the time

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of functions or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Functions and responsibilities may change at any time with or without notice.

KI is an Equal Opportunity Employer.