Tactical Buyer

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.