Buyer /Planner

The Buyer/Planner at Kao is tasked with ordering raw and packaging materials to support production at both Kao plants and Contract Manufacturers. They develop ordering plans based on various factors, manage purchase orders, and communicate potential stock issues within cross-functional teams, ensuring a smooth production process.

Kao seeks candidates for the Buyer/Planner role who hold a Bachelor's Degree in Operations or Supply Chain Management and have a minimum of 1 year of relevant experience in Supply Chain or Operations using an ERP/MRP system. Strong communication skills and a customer-focused attitude are critical for success in this role.

Kao offers a friendly and flexible work environment where collaboration thrives. The Buyer/Planner will work within cross-functional teams and engage in active discussions, which fosters an inclusive culture where each voice is valued. Plus, with hybrid work options, you can enjoy a balanced work life.

At Kao, Buyer/Planners can expect an excellent benefits package, including healthcare from day one, a 401(k) plan with company matching, a generous allocation of 36 days off, and a competitive salary range of $60,000 to $75,000. Moreover, career development opportunities are abundant.

The Buyer/Planner plays a pivotal role in enhancing supply chain efficiency by developing accurate ordering plans, monitoring inventory levels, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to address potential stock issues. Their proactive efforts ensure high customer satisfaction and optimal inventory management.

When answering this question, highlight your specific experiences with ERP/MRP systems, focusing on how you have utilized these systems for order management and inventory optimization. Give examples of challenges you faced and how you overcame them using the software.

Discuss your approach to balancing vendor capabilities with production demands, emphasizing effective communication and relationship-building skills. Illustrate with examples how you've successfully navigated challenges in vendor management.

Explain your strategies for monitoring and analyzing sales trends and inventory levels that lead to obsolescence. Share specific actions you've taken in past roles to proactively mitigate these issues.

Provide insight into your problem-solving skills by sharing past experiences where you've quickly adapted to unforeseen disruptions. Highlight the importance of communication with stakeholders to find effective solutions.

Elaborate on specific methodologies or tools you’ve used for inventory optimization, such as demand forecasting, just-in-time ordering, or safety stock assessments. Provide examples of how these techniques improved efficiency.

Describe a particular project where your input as a Buyer/Planner was crucial in driving success by collaborating across departments. Focus on the outcomes achieved and your role in the team's success.

Share your strategies for monitoring and reporting KPTs, including any tools or software you prefer for data analysis. Discuss how you ensure that targets are met and how you respond when they aren’t.

Discuss qualities such as strong analytical skills, communication abilities, and the capacity to work collaboratively. Explain why you believe these traits are critical to success in the Buyer/Planner role.

Articulate the importance of the Buyer/Planner’s role in aligning inventory and supply with new product launches, emphasizing the need for strategic planning and coordination with marketing and production teams.

When responding, express your enthusiasm for Kao's mission, values, and the specific aspects of the Buyer/Planner role that resonate with your career goals. Highlight any research you've done about the company that speaks to your fit with their culture.