Company DescriptionAdhesive Applications, established in 1970, specializes in creating customized pressure-sensitive adhesive film, foam, and transfer tape products designed for the most challenging applications. We are dedicated to providing innovative and practical solutions tailored to industry needs. With decades of expertise and a focus on quality, our team is committed to developing products that exceed expectations. Located in Easthampton, MA, we strive to meet and exceed our customers' adhesive requirements.The Purchasing Manager is responsible for sourcing, negotiating, and procuring raw materials, components, and services required for the manufacturing of tape and adhesive products. This role ensures cost-effective purchasing strategies, supplier performance management, material availability, and alignment with production schedules while maintaining high quality and regulatory standards.The ideal candidate has experience in the tape, coatings, or adhesive manufacturing industry and understands key raw materials, including films, release liners, resins, rubber, acrylics, silicones, solvents, packaging materials, and specialty chemicals. Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic Sourcing & ProcurementDevelop and execute purchasing strategies for raw materials, chemicals, packaging, and MRO suppliesWork with the Manufacturing, Lab, and Product Development teams to source and qualify suppliers for films, adhesives, release liners, coatings, and related materialsNegotiate pricing, contracts, payment terms, and supply agreementsIdentify cost-saving opportunities and lead cost-reduction initiativesMonitor commodity trends and raw material market fluctuationsSupplier ManagementEvaluate supplier performance for quality, delivery, cost, and serviceConduct supplier audits and maintain strong vendor relationshipsResolve supply disruptions and material shortagesInventory & Production SupportCollaborate with production planning to ensure timely material availabilityMaintain optimal inventory levels to balance cost and serviceCoordinate with warehouse and logistics teams to manage incoming materialsCompliance & QualityEnsure materials meet product specifications and regulatory requirementsMaintain documentation for SDS, compliance certifications, and quality standardsSupport quality investigations related to raw material defectsUnderstanding and working knowledge of ISO 9001:2015 requirements. Required QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, or related field5+ years of purchasing or procurement experience in manufacturingExperience in tape, adhesive, coatings, chemical, or converting industries strongly preferredStrong negotiation and contract management skillsKnowledge of ERP/MRP systemsUnderstanding of raw material markets (films, resins, rubber, acrylics, solvents, packaging)Strong analytical and problem-solving skillsExcellent communication and leadership abilities Preferred QualificationsExperience managing a procurement teamFamiliarity with global sourcing and import/export regulationsLean manufacturing or continuous improvement experience