Purchasing Agent

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Source new and alternate vendors for materials, products, and services, domestically and internationally.
• Approve requisitions and purchase orders for supplies and equipment.
• Manage the purchasing supply chain.
• Review and update purchase order promise dates based on changes in vendor lead times and minimum order quantities.
• Effectively communicate significant changes to Sales, Production and Finance.
• Recommend min/max levels for key raw materials.
• Develop and implement purchasing and contract management instructions, policies, and procedures.
• Timely resolution of vendor claims to maximize credits.
• Provide pricing suggestions for new product development.
• Develop cost reduction strategies while maintaining positive vendor relationships.
• Proactively control excess inventory levels, working with vendors and internal departments.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
• A high level of negotiation and written and personal communication skills.
• A solid understanding and at least three years’ experience in MRP processes in a mid-size manufacturing company.
• Proficiency with an ERP system and Microsoft Office.
• A high level of interpersonal relationship skills, as this position will work closely with vendors, and internally with manufacturing, sales, customer service, and finance departments.