On behalf of our client, Studio Displays, Inc. (SDI) , we are seeking an experienced and proactive Strategic Buyer to join their team in Fort Mill, South Carolina (South Charlotte, NC).
This is an outstanding opportunity for an accomplished procurement professional who enjoys working in a dynamic manufacturing environment where they can make a direct impact on operational performance and supplier relationships. The ideal candidate thrives in a hands-on, fast-paced organization, enjoys building processes, and is comfortable taking ownership in a growing business.
Company Overview
Studio Displays is a family-owned company specializing in the design, fabrication, and installation of custom trade show exhibits, museum displays, branded environments, and corporate interiors. For more than 45 years, SDI has combined exceptional craftsmanship, creativity, and project execution to create immersive environments that bring brands to life.
With an entrepreneurial culture and a commitment to quality, Studio Displays offers employees the opportunity to contribute directly to the company's continued growth and success
Company website
Position Overview
Reporting directly to the CEO, the Strategic Buyer is responsible for developing and executing purchasing strategies while managing the procurement of raw materials, hardware, purchased components, subcontracted services, and vendor supplies required throughout the organization.
This position plays a critical role in ensuring materials are sourced competitively, delivered on time, and aligned with production schedules. The Strategic Buyer will collaborate closely with Engineering, Manufacturing, Planning, and Receiving to maintain uninterrupted operations while driving continuous improvements in purchasing processes, supplier performance, inventory management, and cost control.
The successful candidate will possess strong negotiation, analytical, project management, and relationship-building skills. Experience working with MRP planning, ERP systems, inventory management, and supplier development is essential. This role is well suited for a self-starter who enjoys improving processes and helping build scalable procurement practices within a growing organization.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and execute purchasing strategies that support production schedules, inventory objectives, and company growth.
- Source and negotiate pricing, contracts, delivery schedules, and payment terms with qualified domestic suppliers and subcontractors.
- Establish and maintain strong supplier relationships while monitoring supplier performance, quality, cost, and on-time delivery.
- Manage supplier pricing through formal approval processes and resolve pricing discrepancies and invoice variances.
- Collaborate with Engineering to source new materials and components while supporting new product development and manufacturing initiatives.
- Work closely with Planning and Production to communicate material availability, lead-time changes, and potential supply chain risks.
- Monitor inventory levels and MRP recommendations to ensure material availability while minimizing excess inventory.
- Maintain accurate purchasing, supplier, and material master data within the ERP system.
- Identify and implement continuous improvement initiatives that strengthen procurement processes and operational efficiency.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Business, or a related field preferred.
- Equivalent combination of education and relevant procurement experience will also be considered.
- Minimum of five years of purchasing, strategic sourcing, or procurement experience within a manufacturing environment.
- Experience working in a small to mid-sized manufacturing or assembly company (approximately 50-100 employees) is strongly preferred.
- Experience purchasing fabricated components, raw materials, hardware, subcontracted services, or custom-manufactured products is highly desirable.
- Working knowledge of Material Requirements Planning (MRP), inventory management, and ERP systems.
- Strong analytical, financial, and Microsoft Excel skills.
- Excellent negotiation, supplier relationship management, and communication abilities.
- Demonstrated ability to prioritize multiple projects and work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
- Self-motivated with a continuous improvement mindset and the ability to work independently.
- Willingness to travel occasionally within the United States to visit suppliers.
Why Join Studio Displays?
- Competitive compensation package
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits.
- 401(k) plan with company matching contribution.
- Opportunity to make a significant impact within a growing organization.
- Direct interaction with executive leadership and the ability to influence company-wide procurement strategy.
- Entrepreneurial, family-owned culture with open communication, short decision-making processes, and a collaborative work environment.
- Stable company with more than 45 years of success and an outstanding reputation for craftsmanship and customer service.