Alphonso Smith
Easley,SC
Summary
Experienced Senior Buyer with over a decade of success in strategic procurement, supplier negotiation, and material planning within fast-paced manufacturing environments. Proven track record in cost reduction, vendor performance optimization, and ERP system integration (SAP). Adept at managing multimillion-dollar spend, forecasting inventory needs, and leading cross-functional teams to exceed operational and financial targets. Highly skilled in contract management, sourcing strategies, and data-driven decision-making to support business goals.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
Work History
Buyer
ITW Hartness
Greenville, SC
- Current
- Determine required materials for production and generate accurate, timely purchase orders.
- Schedule and manage delivery of materials to align with production needs and minimize downtime.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams during ERP implementation for seamless data integration.
- Lead vendor negotiations for all electrical parts, optimizing cost and delivery terms.
- Manage Kanban systems for purchased electrical parts, improving stock visibility and availability.
- Track and ensure invoice accuracy and prompt processing with Accounts Payable.
- Handle supplier performance metrics, addressing issues related to quality and timeliness.
- Oversaw $9 million in annual spend, achieving cost control without sacrificing quality or timelines.
Purchasing Supervisor
Encompass Healthcare
Greenville, SC
01.2021 - 01.2021
- Negotiated pricing and contracts with external vendors for medical and clinical supplies.
- Managed procurement of equipment and supplies while maintaining compliance with medical standards.
- Oversaw PO processing from requisition to invoice approval, ensuring timely delivery.
- Maintained accurate inventory to optimize cost efficiency and ensure availability of critical items.
- Managed and maintained all rental contracts and documentation requirements.
Material Planner/Buyer
REMA
Fountain Inn, SC
01.2021 - 01.2021
- Planned material requirements based on forecasts and production schedules.
- Issued and tracked POs while maintaining supplier relationships and addressing delivery issues.
- Worked on ERP system integration with production, logistics, and engineering teams.
- Monitored inventory levels, adjusted schedules, and initiated timely replenishments.
Buyer/Planner
Schneider Electric
Seneca, SC
01.2019 - 01.2020
- Started as Material Analyst and promoted to Buyer within six weeks due to performance.
- Saved $100K annually by renegotiating contracts and optimizing procurement strategy.
- Served as primary liaison for supplier communication and resolution of PO issues.
- Performed inventory reviews and purchasing analysis to reduce excess and obsolete stock.
- Supported cost reduction objectives by evaluating vendor capabilities and alternative sourcing.
Production Associate
BMW
Greer, SC
01.2018 - 01.2019
- Managed goods receipt, material staging, and inventory replenishment for production.
- Verified accuracy of pre-pulled parts based on shift build plan.
- Conducted daily cycle counts to maintain inventory accuracy.
- Performed quality inspections and documentation in line with GMP standards.
- Maintained 5S housekeeping and contributed to a safe, efficient work environment.
Senior Program Director / Senior Coordinator
OOBE Uniforms
Greenville, SC
01.2013 - 01.2017
- Procured and managed $20M in uniform programs for Chick-fil-A restaurants globally.
- Negotiated contracts, handled budgeting, and oversaw inventory and web-based ordering systems.
- Collaborated with sourcing offices overseas to ensure product quality and delivery timelines.
- Directed product development, item setup, cost tracking, and customs/import processes.
- Led cross-functional teams on margin improvement, factory negotiations, and logistics coordination.
Director of Equipment (Certified)
Clemson University
Clemson, SC
01.1996 - 01.2013
- Managed $3M procurement budget and supervised 42 staff across three equipment rooms.
- Oversaw team travel operations, apparel/equipment purchasing, and inventory systems.
- Implemented key and equipment check-out systems for control and cost savings.
- Coordinated vehicle maintenance, package logistics, and vendor contract negotiations.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Social Science
Clemson University
Clemson, SCSkills
- Strategic Sourcing & Procurement
- Material Planning & Forecasting
- Contract Negotiation
- Inventory & Vendor Management
- ERP Implementation (SAP, MRP Systems)
- Cost Reduction Initiatives
- Supply Chain Coordination
- Microsoft Office Suite (Advanced Excel)
- SAP (ERP & MRP Systems)
- Microsoft Excel (Advanced)
- Navision
- Contract Lifecycle Management
- Inventory Systems & 5S Methodologies
Timeline
Purchasing Supervisor
Encompass Healthcare
01.2021 - 01.2021
Material Planner/Buyer
REMA
01.2021 - 01.2021
Buyer/Planner
Schneider Electric
01.2019 - 01.2020
Production Associate
BMW
01.2018 - 01.2019
Senior Program Director / Senior Coordinator
OOBE Uniforms
01.2013 - 01.2017
Director of Equipment (Certified)
Clemson University
01.1996 - 01.2013
Buyer
ITW Hartness
- Current
Bachelor of Arts - Social Science
Clemson University