Purchase Associate

Job Description

insideFPV is seeking an experienced Purchase Manager to lead procurement and supply chain activities for our rapidly growing defence and drone technology business. The role requires managing end-to-end purchasing operations, ensuring timely material availability, developing strategic supplier relationships, and driving cost optimization while maintaining quality and delivery commitments.

Key Responsibilities

Procurement & Sourcing

• Manage end-to-end procurement activities from requirement receipt to delivery.
• Source electronic components, drone parts, batteries, motors, sensors, communication systems, manufacturing materials, tools, machinery, and services.
• Identify, evaluate, onboard, and develop new domestic and international vendors.
• Obtain quotations, conduct comparative analysis, and negotiate commercial terms.
• Ensure procurement is completed within approved budgets and timelines.
• Generate and manage Purchase Orders (POs) and procurement documentation.

Vendor Management

• Build and maintain strong vendor relationships.
• Conduct vendor performance evaluations based on quality, pricing, delivery, and responsiveness.
• Negotiate pricing, payment terms, warranties, service agreements, and annual contracts.
• Maintain approved vendor databases and sourcing records.

Inventory & Material Planning

• Coordinate with Production, R&D, Stores, and Operations teams for material planning.
• Monitor stock levels and ensure timely replenishment.
• Prevent stock-outs and minimize excess inventory.
• Track lead times and maintain procurement schedules for critical items.

Cost Optimization

• Drive procurement cost reduction initiatives.
• Identify alternative suppliers and substitute materials where feasible.
• Conduct market intelligence and price benchmarking exercises.
• Improve procurement efficiency while maintaining quality standards.

Compliance & Documentation

• Ensure procurement activities comply with Company policies and applicable laws.
• Maintain procurement records, contracts, quotations, invoices, and vendor agreements.
• Support audits, certifications, government inspections, and compliance requirements.
• Ensure GST, vendor documentation, and contractual records are properly maintained.

Cross-Functional Coordination

• Work closely with Production, R&D, Finance, Quality, and Management teams.
• Resolve procurement-related issues affecting production schedules.
• Support new product development and prototype sourcing requirements.
• Coordinate logistics and shipment tracking with suppliers and transport partners.

Requirements

• 3+ years of experience in Procurement, Purchasing, or Supply Chain Management.
• Experience in electronics, manufacturing, aerospace, defence, drones, automotive, or technology industries preferred.
• Strong negotiation, vendor management, analytical, and commercial skills.
• Working knowledge of ERP/MRP systems and advanced Excel.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-growth technology environment.

Preferred Experience

• Procurement of electronic components, PCBs, batteries, motors, sensors, communication systems, and mechanical fabrication parts.
• Vendor development and international sourcing.
• Manufacturing and production planning environments.