Buyer Planner

The Specialty/Carlstar Division of Titan International (TWI) is seeking an experienced Buyer/Planner to join our team at our Franklin, TN office. The Buyer/Planner is responsible for ensuring the uninterrupted flow of materials across the supply chain by actively managing weekly MRP signals and issuing accurate, timely purchase orders. This role requires a strong understanding of supply chain dynamics and close coordination with suppliers to support new product introductions, transitions, and ongoing production needs. The Buyer/Planner applies analytical rigor, strong attention to detail, and cross-functional collaboration to proactively mitigate risk, optimize inventory, and support overall business objectives. 

Summary of Responsibility:

• Ensures timely procurement of materials and services to support production schedules and customer commitments.

• Analyzes inventory levels, demand forecasts, and MRP outputs to determine optimal stocking strategies.

• Develops and executes inventory control practices to minimize excess, slow-moving, and obsoleted inventory.

• Monitors inventory turns and key metrics, adjusting plans as needed to meet cost, service, and working-capital goals. 

• Issues purchase orders accurately and on time; secures supplier acknowledgments and required documentation (including COAs) in alignment with incoming quality requirements. 

• Communicates with suppliers regarding product specifications, packaging requirements, pricing, availability, and delivery schedules. 

• Evaluates supplier performance against defined metrics such as on-time delivery, quality, and responsiveness. 

• Partners with suppliers to resolve performance issues and drive continuous improvement initiatives. 

• Collaborates cross-functionally with sales, production, planning, and marketing to develop, review, and validate demand forecasts. 

• Utilizes data analytic tools to track supply performance and forecast accuracy; prepares and presents regular repots on procurement, inventory, and demand planning KPIs. 

• Serve as project lead for supplier transitions, new product introductions, and high-urgency situations requiring strong coordination, communication, and decision-making. 

Education, Experience and Skills: 

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business or a related field.

• 3-5 years of experience in supply chain, with demonstrated experience in procurement and planning. 

• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities, including experience with contract negotiation.

• Proven project management experience; certification is a plus.

• Demonstrated ability to synthesize large, complex data sets into clear insights and concise presentations that support decision-making.

• Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate cross-functionally and communicate effectively at multiple levels of the organization. 

• High organized, with the ability to manage priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment. 

• Advanced technical proficiency, including Microsoft office and advanced Excel working knowledge of SQL or similar analytics tools preferred.

• Experience using ERP systems for procurement and inventory management; JD Edwards E1 experience a strong plus. 

Personal Trait Profile: 

• Strong judgement and decision-making abilities.

• Exceptional problem-solving skills with a high level of technical and analytical aptitude.

• Collaborative team player who builds strong working relationships across functions.

• Strong analytical and critical-thinking skills.

• Clear, concise communicator with the ability to present information effectively both verbally and in writing.

• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and projects simultaneously.

• Innovative mindset with a positive, continuous-improvement orientation; acts as a proactive change agent.