Purchasing Agent

Position Summary:

• Under the direction of the Purchasing Manager, the Purchasing Agent helps ensure that products are available when and where they are needed.
• Sources and evaluates products to achieve cost optimization and supply chain efficiency.
• Supports the achievement of KPIs including supplier quality, cost reductions, on-time delivery as well as control of the overall inventory levels.

Essential Functions:

• Work closely with various departments such as sales, operations, and finance to ensure that procurement activities align with overall business goals and operational needs.
• Identify and mitigate potential risks related to supply chain disruptions, supplier issues, or market fluctuations that could impact procurement processes.
• Research potential suppliers, obtain quotes, and evaluate bids to determine the best options in terms of quality, cost, and delivery.
• Negotiate favorable terms and conditions with suppliers, including pricing, payment terms, quantity discounts, and delivery schedules.
• Generate purchase orders that detail the specifications, quantities, and terms of the purchased items. Ensure accuracy and compliance with company policies and procedures.
• Maintain strong relationships with suppliers through effective communication, regular follow-ups, and addressing any issues that arise. Collaborate with suppliers to resolve disputes and ensure timely delivery.
• Stay informed about market trends, pricing fluctuations, and industry developments. Conduct market research to identify new suppliers, innovative products, and cost-saving opportunities.
• Collaborate with the Inventory Control Department to monitor stock levels, anticipate demand, and ensure the availability of products without overstocking or stockouts.
• Ensure that purchased goods meet the required quality standards and specifications. Address any quality issues with the Purchasing Manager and coordinate returns or replacements as needed.
• Monitor supplier contracts and expiration dates, ensuring compliance with terms and conditions.
• Analyze costs associated with procurement activities and maintain awareness of the organization's budget constraints. Strive to optimize costs while maintaining quality.
• Track supplier performance using key performance indicators (KPIs). Discuss trends and issues with Purchasing manager to help make informed decisions regarding ongoing partnerships.
• Support company goals and objectives on quality improvements, cost reductions, cycle reductions, and product delivery improvements
• Adhere to ethical standards and legal regulations in procurement activities, ensuring fair and transparent practices.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement within the procurement function.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Experience/participation with MRP implementation a plus
• Purchasing experience within a distribution environment preferred.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Must be customer focused for both internal & external customers
• Ability to multitask, take initiative, be resourceful, and be customer oriented
• Excellent interpersonal skills and high attention to detail is a must
• Superior analytical skills, with strong attention to detail and accuracy
• Prioritize, meet deadlines, and take ownership and responsibility for assigned tasks with demonstrated ability to learn tasks quickly
• Flexible to adapt to changing priorities while meeting or exceeding given deadlines
• Strong Microsoft Word and Excel skills

Minimum Qualifications:

• To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty sufficiently. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Bachelors Degree preferred
• 3-5 years purchasing/planning experience
• Must have hands-on experience with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)/ Materials Requirement Planning (MRP) systems

Must Have:

• 3+ Years of Experience
• Must be familiar with RFQs, B2B, and negotiations.
• Must have product purchasing experience in bulk and packaged goods in a distribution environment is preferred
• Must have hands on experience with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) / Materials Requirement Planning (MRP) systems

Nice To Have:

• Distribution background