Sr. Strategic Buyer

About the role

The Sr. Strategic Buyer will be responsible for delivering an efficient, responsive, and strategic service to the business in the procurement of materials for Xylem's Buffalo manufacturing operation. This role is responsible for managing supplier performance across quality, cost, and delivery, while supporting a supply base both inside and outside the U.S. The Sr. Strategic Buyer will also play an important role in driving sourcing strategies, identifying cost savings opportunities, developing market insights, and partnering cross-functionally to support business objectives. CORE RESPONSIBILITIES: To perform the job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Effectively manage supplier relationships and collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure strong service, responsiveness, and alignment with business and operational needs. Lead sourcing and procurement activities to ensure parts and materials are sourced on time, meet quality expectations, and align with cost targets to support production milestones and supply requirements. Partner with department representatives to understand supply needs, budget guidelines, and business priorities, while confirming order quantities, pricing, and availability. Negotiate effectively with suppliers and internal stakeholders regarding the procurement of products and components, with a focus on achieving the best overall value for the business. Monitor supplier performance and support continuous improvement in supplier quality, delivery, responsiveness, and cost competitiveness. Identify and drive component savings opportunities and other value improvement initiatives that strengthen Xylem's overall cost position. Analyze price trends, monitor market conditions, and build knowledge of supply market dynamics to help influence procurement strategies and decision-making. Maintain strong, trusted relationships with suppliers while managing issue resolution related to supply disruptions, invoice discrepancies, returns, and credits. Ensure the accurate creation and management of purchase orders and effective communication of orders to vendors. Support audit compliance, order accuracy, and SAP data integrity, including periodic system cleanup and vendor master data support. Work collaboratively with Accounts Payable and other internal teams on invoice resolution and new vendor setup activities. Assist the Xylem Global Procurement team with data collection, outsourcing support, reporting, and supplier communications as needed. Responsible for completing all activities in full compliance with company procedures for Health, Safety, and Environmental requirements. Cooperates with managers and other employees to maintain a safe work environment and takes immediate action where deficiencies are identified to prevent harm to self and others. Additional duties and responsibilities may be required based on organizational needs.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain, Engineering, Accounting, or related field.
• CPSM certification is a plus.
• 3-5 years of relevant experience.
• Strong people skills and the ability to effectively interact with all levels of internal and external stakeholders.
• Effective verbal, written, and presentation skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Strong planning, analytical, and organizational skills.
• Commercial awareness and sound business judgment.
• Strong numerical and analytical ability to assess facts, figures, and market trends.
• Comfortable leading negotiations and building internal and external networks.
• Ability to work under pressure, manage demanding targets, and meet tight deadlines.
• Tact, diplomacy, and a collaborative approach to problem-solving.
• DAY IN THE LIFE:
• In this role, the working environment is a typical office and manufacturing floor environment. In addition, this role may travel approximately 10%.
• Xylem does not provide visa sponsorship for this position.
• #LI-TM1
• Join the global Xylem team to be a part of innovative technology solutions trans

Benefits

Additional Information

Xylem is a Fortune 500 global water solutions company dedicated to advancing sustainable impact and empowering the people who make water work every day. As a leading water technology company with 23,000 employees operating in over 150 countries, Xylem is at the forefront of addressing the world's most critical water challenges. We invite passionate individuals to join our team, dedicated to exceeding customer expectations through innovative and sustainable solutions.

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