Planner/Buyer

Headquartered in Nashville, TN – one of the fastest-growing and most exciting cities in the United States – August Bioservices is a privately-owned, high-growth, and high-impact Contract Development Manufacturing Organization (CDMO).  As a US-based outsourcing partner that provides a wide array of expert drug discovery, drug formulation, and drug manufacturing services to pharma and biotech companies of all sizes, we play a vital role in the global pharmaceutical industry. Our work is instrumental in helping to develop molecules today that can become the life-changing therapies of tomorrow. To support our growth plans, August is investing significant capital in a two-phase expansion project – including building a new state-of-the-art facility adjacent to our current facility. For those seeking dynamic opportunities, rewarding career paths and a chance to make a difference in global health, come grow with August!

The Planner/Buyer is responsible for coordinating production planning and procurement activities to support the efficient manufacturing of pharmaceutical products. This role ensures raw materials, components, and services are available to meet production schedules while maintaining compliance with regulatory requirements and quality standards. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced, small-company environment and can balance strategic planning with hands-on execution. 

Key Responsibilities:

Production Planning 

• Develop and maintain production schedules based on customer demand, forecasts, and capacity constraints  

• Coordinate closely with manufacturing, quality, and warehouse teams to ensure schedule adherence  

• Monitor production progress and adjust plans as needed to address delays or changes in demand  

• Support new product introductions and tech transfers with planning and material readiness  

Procurement / Buying 

• Source and procure raw materials, packaging components, and services required for GMP manufacturing  

• Issue and manage purchase orders; track order status to ensure on-time delivery  

• Maintain appropriate inventory levels while minimizing excess and obsolete stock  

• Identify and qualify suppliers in collaboration with Quality and Regulatory teams  

• Negotiate pricing, lead times, and supply agreements where applicable  

Inventory & Materials Management 

• Monitor inventory levels and perform material requirements planning (MRP)  

• Ensure accurate inventory records in ERP systems  

• Collaborate with warehouse on receiving, storage, and material movement  

• Manage safety stock levels and reorder points  

Cross-Functional Coordination 

• Partner with Quality Assurance to ensure materials meet GMP and regulatory standards  

• Work with Finance on cost control, budgeting, and invoice reconciliation  

• Communicate with customers (as needed) regarding timelines and material availability  

• Support audits by providing documentation and traceability of materials  

Continuous Improvement 

• Identify opportunities to improve planning accuracy, supplier performance, and inventory turns  

• Participate in process improvement initiatives and system enhancements  

• Develop and track KPIs related to supply chain performance  

• Other duties as assigned 

Qualifications:

Education & Experience 

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Life Sciences, or related field (or equivalent experience)  

• 3+ years of experience in planning, procurement, or supply chain within pharmaceutical, biotech, or regulated manufacturing environment 

• Experience in a contract manufacturing (CMO/CDMO) environment preferred  

Skills & Knowledge 

• Strong understanding of GMP requirements and regulated environments  

• Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, NetSuite, or similar)  

• Excellent organizational, problem-solving, and multitasking skills  

• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a small, dynamic company setting  

• Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills  

• Analytical mindset with attention to detail

Preferred Qualifications:

• APICS/ASCM certification (e.g., CPIM or CSCP)  

• Experience with demand planning and forecasting  

• Familiarity with supplier qualification and audit processes  

Work Environment: 

Fast-paced, growth-oriented small company environment  

Requires frequent interaction with manufacturing and warehouse areas 

At August Bioservices, Our Credo is our culture. Everything we do, we do with great care. We believe in the promise of discovery and the power of science to transform lives. We assert that excellence is not a static destination, but a standard, and an every-day measuring stick of our advancement. We aspire to unlock the potential in every person, every process and every molecule – from start to finish. We are committed to doing the right thing the first time and every time, meeting or exceeding all regulatory requirements. We strive to be exceptional, preferred and indispensable partners for our customers; responsible and engaged citizens within our communities; and active, mindful stewards of our environment.  We are August Bioservices. We are pointing the way forward. If this sounds like your kind of working environment, we want you on our team!
August Bioservices  is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. All aspects of employment including the decision to hire, promote, discipline, or discharge, will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs. August Bioservices does not discriminate on the basis of any status protected under federal, state, or local law.