Chad Ainsworth
Branson,MO
Summary
Dynamic Purchasing and Inventory Specialist with over a decade of expertise in optimizing supply chain operations. Proven track record in vendor negotiations and performance management, consistently driving cost reductions while enhancing inventory efficiency. Skilled in demand forecasting and strategic sourcing, effectively aligning procurement strategies with organizational goals to support business growth. Committed to leveraging analytical skills and industry knowledge to deliver innovative solutions that streamline processes and maximize profitability.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
Work History
Purchasing
Claridge Products and Equipment, Inc
08.2021 - Current
- Procured raw materials based on production demand, safety stock requirements, and inventory forecasts.
- Monitored and adjusted inventory levels in alignment with seasonal fluctuations, vendor lead times, and production schedules.
- Sourced and purchased custom components for new product launches and customer-specific orders.
- Assisted in the training of new and existing employees during the implementation of a new ERP system.
- Collaborated with operations to strategically utilize overstocked or obsolete materials, minimizing waste and reducing holding costs.
- Negotiated favorable payment terms from vendors.
- Supported cost-saving initiatives by sourcing competitively priced materials and reducing excess inventory, helping meet annual cost reduction targets.
Purchasing Manager
Golding Barge Line
12.2017 - 08.2021
- Procured supplies and equipment for a fleet of 26 motor vessels, ensuring timely delivery and compliance with operational needs.
- Managed receiving and distribution of all purchased items, accurately sorting and allocating supplies to each vessel.
- Handled purchasing for office operations.
- Analyzed and monitored vessel budgets to ensure alignment with financial targets.
- Coordinated logistics and delivery schedules for vessel supplies, accounting for routes, timing, and critical needs.
- Oversaw warehouse inventory, organization, and cleanliness to maintain operational efficiency and compliance with safety standards.
- Oversaw grounds and vehicle cleanliness, maintenance, and up keep.
Tool Room Manager
Steel Service
11.2017 - 12.2017
- Procured tools, PPE, welding consumables, and torch equipment to support daily operations.
- Ordered parts and equipment for machinery repairs and preventive maintenance, working closely with the maintenance department.
- Managed MRO inventory, maintaining optimal stock levels of tools, PPE, consumables, machine parts, and maintenance supplies.
- Interpreted equipment schematics and technical manuals to accurately identify and source required replacement parts.
- Ensured timely procurement to minimize downtime and support continuous operations across the facility.
Purchasing Supervisor
Armstrong Flooring Inc.
04.2016 - 11.2017
- Managed purchasing of all supplies and replacement parts for the plant and maintenance department, ensuring timely procurement to support operations.
- Maintained and organized MRO inventory in the storeroom, optimizing stock levels and reducing excess inventory.
- Tracked and managed monthly departmental budgets using SAP and Excel, ensuring spending remained within targets.
- Interpreted blueprints and technical schematics to accurately identify and source machine parts.
- Certified to operate forklifts and mobile equipment, supporting hands-on inventory handling and logistics.
Local Purchase Specialist/Information Technology Specialist
Mississippi TanTec Leather Inc.
10.2014 - 04.2016
- Designed and implemented the complete network infrastructure for the manufacturing facility, including the production floor, raw material warehouse, hardware warehouse, and administrative offices.
- Managed servers, switches, firewalls, wireless routers, and VoIP phone systems across both local and international sites.
- Installed Ethernet cabling for computers, network printers, and surveillance systems throughout the facility.
- Procured maintenance supplies, plant equipment, and production chemicals from both domestic and international vendors.
- Supervised daily operations of the hardware and chemical warehouses, ensuring compliance with safety and inventory standards.
- Oversaw all contractor activities and managed contracts related to plant construction, equipment setup, and infrastructure deployment.
Help Desk Analyst/Technician
Hind Community College
01.2014 - 10.2014
- Handled incoming calls and support requests from faculty and students, providing timely resolution to technical issues and inquiries.
- Diagnosed and resolved problems related to software, hardware, and user accounts; corrected system errors and followed up on outstanding issues.
- Assisted with setting up and imaging computers across multiple campus locations, ensuring consistent configuration and deployment.
Inventory Assistant/Maintenance
Airgas USA, LLC
12.2007 - 01.2014
- Inspected and verified all incoming merchandise and packages against purchase orders; logged shipment details including PO numbers and shipper information.
- Handled issues related to damaged goods, incorrect shipments, and returns.
- Managed inventory across store front, warehouse, and cylinder dock, maintaining accurate stock levels and organization.
- Worked safely with high- and low-pressure gas cylinders and liquid cylinders, following proper handling and safety protocols.
- Maintained cleanliness and order across the warehouse, cylinder dock, and yard to support efficient and safe operations.
Education
Associates of Applied Science - Computer Service Technology
Hinds Community College
Raymond, MS12.2014
High School Diploma -
Warren Central High School
Vicksburg, MS05.2010
Skills
- Extensive experience in multiple ERP systems including; Infor CSI, Infor Visual, Sinex, SAP, FileMaker, and Lotus Notes
- Supply Chain Management
- Vendor Management
- Cost Reduction
- Logistics
- Material Management
- Material Demand Forecasting
Timeline
Purchasing
Claridge Products and Equipment, Inc
08.2021 - Current
Purchasing Manager
Golding Barge Line
12.2017 - 08.2021
Tool Room Manager
Steel Service
11.2017 - 12.2017
Purchasing Supervisor
Armstrong Flooring Inc.
04.2016 - 11.2017
Local Purchase Specialist/Information Technology Specialist
Mississippi TanTec Leather Inc.
10.2014 - 04.2016
Help Desk Analyst/Technician
Hind Community College
01.2014 - 10.2014
Inventory Assistant/Maintenance
Airgas USA, LLC
12.2007 - 01.2014
Associates of Applied Science - Computer Service Technology
Hinds Community College
High School Diploma -
Warren Central High School
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