Split Location: Verona, MS and Ecru, MS Work Schedule: Monday – Friday, 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM CT Position Overview The Procurement Specialist is responsible for the strategic purchasing of raw materials, components, and Maintenance, Repair, and Operations (MRO) supplies. This role serves as a vital link between Manufacturing Operations, Design, Engineering, and suppliers to ensure the best-delivered value to Ashley Furniture Industries. The ideal candidate will manage inventory levels, negotiate pricing, and drive cost reduction strategies while maintaining strong supplier relationships. Primary Job Functions Strategic Purchasing & Inventory Management Procure a specific set of assigned raw materials, components, and MRO supplies based on internal customer requirements. Manage the full order lifecycle, including following up on status, expediting, deferring, or canceling orders to ensure materials are available for production on time. Ensure accurate and timely completion of inventory transaction data entry and scanning. Develop and execute inventory strategies to achieve annual inventory turn objectives. Supplier Selection & Negotiation Facilitate communication between internal departments to support the selection of primary and secondary suppliers offering the best value. Perform initial price negotiations and serve as the company representative to prospective suppliers. Place Requests for Quotation (RFQs), evaluate quotes, and recommend suppliers for business awards to the Global Commodity Manager. Initiate negotiations to mitigate price increases and develop plans to offset costs when necessary. Collaboration & Development Partner with Design, Engineering, and Manufacturing in the development of materials for production. Evaluate Engineering Change Orders (ECOs) to ensure correct costing and supplier information; generate Purchasing Change Orders (PCOs) and Counter Measures (ICM’s) to reflect accurate costs. Facilitate the resolution of supplier proposals for component changes and present recommendations to Purchasing Management. Work cross-functionally to resolve invoice issues related to cost. Supplier Performance & Relationship Management Train suppliers on the use of to ensure proper data capture regarding PO data, collaboration, planned requirements, and ASNs. Monitor and report on supplier capacities, project completion, and problem resolution. Evaluate supplier performance through monthly scorecards and plant visits. Facilitate communication between the company and suppliers to resolve quality issues. Continuous Improvement Develop and execute cost reduction strategies to achieve annual objectives for assigned commodity groupings. Research and develop new raw material sourcing options as necessary. Demonstrate the Company’s Core and Growth values in the performance of all job functions. Qualifications Experience in purchasing, procurement, or supply chain management within a manufacturing environment. Strong negotiation and communication skills. Proficiency in data analysis and inventory management systems. Ability to work collaboratively across Design, Engineering, and Operations teams. #J-18808-Ljbffr