Tactical Buyer

Description DriveNets is a leader in high-scale networking software for AI infrastructure and service providers. The company pioneered a disaggregated networking architecture that transforms the economics of large-scale networks while maximizing performance, utilization, and operational efficiency. DriveNets-powered networks are deployed by global leaders, including AT&T and Comcast, supporting more than 30% of total U.S. internet traffic. DriveNets AI Fabric delivers full-stack networking for AI infrastructures, providing the highest-performance, Ethernet-based alternative to InfiniBand. The solution is deployed by hyperscalers, NeoClouds, and enterprises worldwide. With over $1B raised, DriveNets continues to push the boundaries of modern networking infrastructure. About the role The Tactical Buyer is responsible for supporting the company's day-to-day procurement activities by ensuring the timely availability of materials and components required for production and business operations. The role focuses on purchase order management, supplier follow-up, delivery expediting, shortage resolution, and procurement of off-the-shelf components, while maintaining close coordination with Planning, Manufacturing, Logistics, and Supply Chain teams. Key Responsibilities Purchase Order Management • Generate and manage purchase orders based on business requirements. • Monitor open purchase orders from placement through delivery and receipt. • Ensure accurate and up-to-date information within the ERP system. • Obtain quotations and evaluate suppliers based on lead-time, availability, and cost. • Manage order changes, reschedules, and supplier confirmations. Delivery Expediting & Supply Assurance • Proactively follow up with suppliers to ensure on-time deliveries. • Expedite critical orders and resolve potential delays before they impact deliveries. • Escalate supply risks and work closely with suppliers to implement corrective actions. • Maintain visibility of critical shortages and recovery plans. Supplier Management • Maintain regular communication with suppliers and distributors. • Monitor supplier performance related to delivery reliability and responsiveness. • Support negotiations related to lead times and commercial terms. • Foster strong supplier relationships to improve service and flexibility. Cross-Functional Collaboration • Work closely with Planning, Material Management, Logistics, Warehouse, and Manufacturing teams. • Provide regular updates on material status, shortages, and supply risks. • Support production schedules by ensuring material availability. Requirements • Minimum 3 years of experience in Procurement, Tactical Buying. • Experience working in a hardware company is required. • Experience managing suppliers and purchase orders in a manufacturing environment. • Experience working with ERP systems. Preferred Experience • Experience in the optics and/or cabling industry is a significant advantage. • Experience working within a global supply chain environment. • Experience supporting high-mix, technology-driven manufacturing operations. Skills • Strong knowledge of procurement and supply chain processes. • Excellent follow-up and expediting skills. • Strong communication and supplier management abilities. • Fluent English, both written and spoken. Personal Competencies • Highly organized with strong attention to detail. • Strong sense of ownership and accountability. • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. • Proactive and results-oriented approach. • Strong problem-solving and analytical skills. • Ability to drive suppliers and internal stakeholders toward timely execution.. The ideal candidate is a hands-on Tactical Buyer with strong supplier management and expediting skills, capable of ensuring material availability and supporting uninterrupted production through proactive procurement execution.