About this position
Position Summary
The Purchasing Agent is responsible for the procurement of materials and supplies at the best cost, quality, availability, and consistent delivery. This position works with suppliers to obtain the lowest total cost of materials and is also responsible for developing and maintaining ongoing supplier relationships.
Primary Responsibilities
- Managing all purchases through the ERP forecasting system for commodity and custom products.
- Evaluating suppliers by considering price, quality, availability, and other criteria within company's strategy.
- Develops and maintains long-term relationships with suppliers.
- Resolve pricing issues on supplier invoices.
- Track, organize, and confirm delivery of goods and supplies.
- Work with the Account Representative’s requests for quotes in a timely manner.
- Review back-order reports daily and open purchase reports weekly.
- Set up item numbers for new items following company guidelines.
- Manage & approve intercompany stock transfers.
- Order and expedite sample requests.
- Obtain returns for defective or non-moving items.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Skills & Abilities
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to express thoughts and ideas clearly, both verbally and in writing with employees and customers at all levels within an organization.
- Showcase excellent organizational skills and strong attention to detail.
- Ability to prioritize tasks effectively and meet strict guidelines.
- Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment.
- Strong analytical and mathematical reasoning skills.
- Ability to work independently with limited daily supervision and to work effectively in a team environment.
- Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, especially Microsoft Excel, is required.
- Proven experience as a purchasing agent or relevant role.
- Ability to establish trust and confidence quickly.
- Proficient in navigating the internet with various software and hardware.
Education & Qualifications
- A bachelor’s degree in business administration, economics, or a related field is strongly preferred, but not required.
- Previous experience with ERP systems is required.
- At least 5 years of experience in a purchasing role.
- Distributors' experience preferred, but not required