Associate Buyer

The Associate Buyer supports tactical procurement, supply planning, supplier coordination, and material execution activities for Eaton’s Chennai manufacturing plant. The role ensures timely availability of materials, accurate MRP execution, ERP data maintenance, and effective supplier and stakeholder communication

A. Procurement & MRP Execution

• Execute day‑to‑day tactical procurement activities for assigned commodities.
• Create, release, and follow up on purchase orders based on MRP requirements.
• Review and execute MRP exception messages (pull-ins, pushouts, cancellations) using tools such as Kinaxis where applicable.
• Validate third‑party POs and ensure smooth delivery to the plant. 

B. Supplier Relationship & Coordination

• Coordinate daily with suppliers for PO confirmation, delivery commitments, and issue resolution.
• Support ongoing supplier relationship management and escalation handling.
• Assist in establishing vendor‑managed inventory (VMI) through min/max parameter setting.

C. Inventory & Material Control

• Maintain inventory levels in line with plant targets and Hi5 metrics (forecast vs actuals).
• Identify and address blocked stock; initiate returns via DMR management where needed.
• Support demand planning and timely forecast communication to suppliers.

D. ERP Data Management & Process Compliance

• Maintain ERP health by reviewing MM parameters and ensuring data accuracy.
• Update ERP with order confirmations, delivery updates, and material status.
• Support compliance with Eaton Supply Chain and P2P processes.

E. Cross-functional Collaboration

• Coordinate with plant managers, site buyers, warehouse, and DC teams on timely material availability and issue resolution.
• Participate in plant assessments and audits related to material management.
• Attend tier meetings and contribute to continuous improvement and process‑excellence initiatives. 

F. Invoice, Logistics & Issue Resolution

• Resolve invoice holds as per defined payment terms by working with suppliers and internal teams. [huntr.co]
• Support resolution of DC/warehouse put‑away issues and logistics coordination. [foundit.in]

 
E. Digital Tools, Data Integrity & Process Compliance

• Utilize digital tools for SCM efficiency and maintain high standards of ERP health.
• Ensure compliance with Eaton Supply Chain and Purchasing procedures.
• Maintain accurate purchasing data (MOQ/MOV, lead times etc) in SAP.

F. Continuous Improvement & Leadership

• Lead best‑practice adoption across procurement processes and support standardization. 
• Drive cost‑out initiatives, inventory DOH improvements, and supplier OTD enhancement programs.
• Mentor junior buyers and contribute to development of purchasing excellence across the plant.

• Any Bachelor or Masters degree in Engg ( Mechanical/Electronics/Electrical & Instrumentation).
• 0-3 years in SCM.

• Working Knowledge on SAP-MM/PP Module.
• Understanding of SCM functions, P2P processes, demand planning, and VMI concepts.
• Relationship management with Employees,Contractors, suppliers and other Stakeholders.
• Core negotiation and supplier handling capabilities.
• Proficiency in MS Office.
• Passionate about delivering excellence.
• Good oral and written communication skills.