Sr Purchasing Specialist

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Senior Purchasing Specialist is responsible for supporting the organization's purchasing and procurement activities by sourcing goods and services, managing vendor relationships, negotiating pricing, and ensuring timely, cost-effective procurement solutions. Partners with schools and corporate departments to meet operational needs while maintaining purchasing standards, contract compliance, and exceptional customer service.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Procure goods and services in accordance with organizational policies, budget requirements, and operational needs.
• Source, evaluate, and maintain relationships with vendors to ensure quality, service, and competitive pricing.
• Solicit quotes, compare pricing, and negotiate routine pricing, terms, and service agreements.
• Prepare, process, and monitor purchase orders to ensure timely and accurate fulfillment.
• Support contract administration by maintaining vendor agreements, renewal schedules, and related documentation.
• Collaborate with school and corporate staff to identify purchasing needs and provide procurement guidance.
• Maintain accurate vendor, pricing, and procurement records within the organization's procurement systems.
• Monitor purchasing activity and identify opportunities for cost savings, process improvements, and standardization.
• Assist with procurement activities for new school openings, remodels, expansions, and other capital projects.
• Resolve vendor issues related to pricing, shipments, product quality, invoicing, and service.
• Ensure compliance with organizational purchasing policies, contract requirements, and applicable regulations.
• Prepare purchasing reports, spend analyses, and other procurement metrics as requested.
• Support procurement system administration, including vendor setup, user support, and troubleshooting.
• Build collaborative relationships with internal stakeholders to provide responsive, customer-focused procurement services.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree is preferred in related field.  Equivalent experience of 10+ years may be considered in lieu of a degree.

• Minimum 3 years’ experience in related field.
• Knowledge of purchasing principles, sourcing strategies, contract administration, and procurement best practices.
• Experience negotiating pricing, terms, and service agreements with vendors.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to build effective relationships across all levels of the organization.
• Demonstrate strong customer service skills with the ability to respond promptly to internal and external needs.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Excel, Word, and Outlook.
• Experience using ERP, procurement, or purchasing systems preferred.
• Ability to analyze spending trends and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Knowledge of contract terms, purchasing policies, and vendor compliance requirements.

BENEFITS:

• Annual Salary Range: $65,000 - $70,000
• Bonus Information: Up to $1,000 per year, paid out quarterly.
• Company sponsored medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance.
• 401(K) plan, with company match.
• Paid time off.
• Ongoing, professional development.
• Generous childcare discounts at any New Horizon Academy location across the U.S.

This position description is not intended to be and should not be construed as an all-inclusive list of responsibilities, skills, or working conditions associated with this position. While this description is intended to accurately reflect the position's activities and requirements, New Horizon Academy reserves the right to modify, add, or remove duties as necessary or desired. E.O.E.