In today’s fast-paced cosmetics and personal care industry, supply chain efficiency and strategic procurement are key drivers of business success. At the heart of this process are buyers, the professionals responsible for sourcing, purchasing, and managing materials and components that keep production lines moving.
If you’re considering a role at Mana Products, one of the leading contract manufacturers in the beauty industry, understanding the Buyer job description is essential. This guide provides a detailed overview of what it takes to be a Buyer at Mana Products — from required skills and qualifications to daily responsibilities and career growth potential.
Whether you’re applying for the role, recruiting talent, or exploring the field, this full guide will help you navigate every aspect of the Mana Products Buyer job.
What Is Mana Products
Mana Products is a New York-based contract manufacturer that has been a behind-the-scenes powerhouse in the beauty and personal care industry for over 40 years. The company specializes in developing, formulating, and producing custom cosmetics, skincare, and hair care products for both established brands and emerging startups.
Because of the company’s scale and the complexity of its operations, the role of a Buyer at Mana is highly strategic, involving collaboration across departments such as R&D, supply chain, manufacturing, and sales.
Overview of the Mana Products Buyer Role
A Buyer at Mana Products is responsible for purchasing raw materials, packaging components, and other items necessary for the company’s production needs. This individual ensures that materials are sourced on time, at the right quality and price, and from approved suppliers.
In essence, a Buyer at Mana acts as the bridge between suppliers and internal teams, helping ensure that manufacturing schedules are met without delays or budget overruns.
Key Responsibilities
Here are the primary duties included in the Mana Products Buyer job description:
Procurement of Materials
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Source and purchase raw materials (e.g., pigments, oils, preservatives) and packaging components (e.g., jars, bottles, labels).
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Ensure timely ordering in line with production schedules and forecasts.
Supplier Management
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Establish and maintain relationships with domestic and international suppliers.
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Evaluate supplier performance, negotiate pricing, and ensure compliance with quality and regulatory standards.
Inventory Coordination
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Monitor stock levels and reorder points.
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Work with planners and inventory managers to avoid overstock or shortages.
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Cost Control
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Negotiate contracts and pricing terms to ensure competitive purchasing.
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Analyze price trends and market conditions to optimize procurement costs.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
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Partner with departments like R&D, Production, Quality Assurance, and Finance.
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Ensure material compatibility with product formulations and packaging requirements.
Documentation & Compliance
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Maintain accurate purchase orders, invoices, and supplier records.
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Ensure purchases comply with company policies, safety regulations, and industry standards.
Issue Resolution
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Troubleshoot delivery issues, damaged goods, or supplier non-performance.
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Implement corrective actions when procurement issues impact production.
Required Skills and Qualifications
To thrive in the Buyer role at Mana Products, candidates must have a blend of technical knowledge, interpersonal skills, and organizational expertise.
Educational Background
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Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Chemistry, or a related field.
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Advanced degrees or certifications (such as CPSM or APICS) are a plus.
Industry Experience
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2–5 years of experience in procurement or buying, preferably in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, or consumer packaged goods.
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Familiarity with raw materials and packaging for personal care products is highly valued.
Technical and Analytical Skills
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Proficiency in ERP systems (such as SAP, Oracle, or NetSuite).
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Strong Excel and reporting skills.
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Ability to read and interpret technical specifications and regulatory documents.
Soft Skills
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Negotiation and communication skills to manage vendor relationships.
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Problem-solving ability to handle supply chain challenges.
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Detail-oriented mindset with strong organizational skills.
Sample Job Description (HR Template)
Here’s a condensed version of a typical Mana Products Buyer job description for use in job postings or resume targeting:
Job Title: Buyer – Mana Products
Location: Long Island City, NY (Hybrid/On-Site)
Job Summary:
Mana Products is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Buyer to join our Procurement Team. The ideal candidate will manage the sourcing and purchasing of raw materials and packaging components to support cosmetic manufacturing operations. This position requires a strong understanding of supply chain principles, vendor management, and cost optimization.
Responsibilities:
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Purchase assigned raw materials and packaging based on production forecasts and inventory needs.
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Maintain relationships with suppliers, negotiate pricing and terms, and ensure on-time deliveries.
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Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align sourcing strategies with product development and manufacturing timelines.
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Track market trends and recommend cost-saving opportunities.
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Maintain accurate procurement records and ensure supplier compliance with internal and regulatory standards.
Qualifications:
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Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, or related field.
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3+ years of buying/procurement experience in a manufacturing or CPG environment.
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Strong negotiation, communication, and data analysis skills.
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Proficient in ERP systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
What Sets the Mana Products Buyer Role Apart?
While Buyer roles exist in many companies, working at Mana Products comes with unique challenges and opportunities:. Fast-Moving Product Cycles
Cosmetics development at Mana often involves rapid product innovation, with tight timelines to launch. Buyers need to act quickly and adapt to changing requirements.
Regulatory Awareness
Products are subject to FDA, EU, and other international regulations, so Buyers must ensure that raw materials meet compliance standards.
Customization Complexity
Many Mana clients request custom formulations and packaging, requiring Buyers to source non-standard materials or coordinate with custom suppliers.
Global Sourcing
Buyers often manage suppliers around the world, navigating international logistics, tariffs, and customs considerations.
Career Path and Advancement
The Buyer role at Mana Products can serve as a stepping stone to various leadership or specialist roles in the supply chain field. Some possible career trajectories include:
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Senior Buyer – Managing larger spend categories or strategic vendor relationships.
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Supply Chain Manager – Overseeing broader procurement and logistics functions.
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Procurement Analyst – Specializing in data-driven sourcing and supplier performance.
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Sourcing Manager – Leading vendor strategy and long-term supply planning.
With Mana’s size and scope, career growth is achievable for high-performing individuals.
Tips for Landing a Buyer Job at Mana Products
If you’re aiming to land this role, here are some helpful steps:
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Tailor Your Resume
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Highlight relevant experience in cosmetic or CPG industries.
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Emphasize your ERP, vendor negotiation, and supply planning skills.
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Know the Industry
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Familiarize yourself with beauty product components, raw material suppliers, and packaging trends.
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Show Results
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Use metrics to demonstrate how you’ve saved costs, improved delivery times, or optimized procurement.
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Prepare for Scenario Questions
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Expect interviews to include scenarios like “What would you do if a shipment is delayed and production is at risk?”
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Final Thoughts
The Buyer position at Mana Products is much more than placing orders — it’s a strategic, fast-paced, and collaborative role that plays a vital part in bringing beauty products to life. With its focus on quality, speed, and innovation, Mana requires Buyers who are sharp, agile, and solution-oriented.
If you’re organized, love negotiating, and have a keen eye for detail, this could be the ideal next step in your career. And with Mana’s reputation and reach, the opportunities for impact — and advancement — are significant.