Mission of the Role
The Buyer contributes to a high quality customer experience by ensuring the reliability, availability and appropriate quantities of stock and on-hand inventory are available when they are needed to meet customer needs. This will include processing purchase orders, negotiating with suppliers, tracking orders, creating and maintaining an inventory, quality assurance and liaising with inventory teams and management. The buyer will work with team members across departments to manage min/max inventory levels and the needs of the business and make purchase decisions based on demand and in step with procurement standards and practices.
Key Duties & Accountabilities
Process and confirm PO's and/or communicate what needs to be ordered, the day they show in REACT
Reply to all emails by the end of business day
Maintain and keep price lists current on appropriate drive
Resolve vendor problems and elevate issues immediately to an acceptable, timely and appropriate resolution
Obtain information about customer needs or preferences by conferring with sales personnel.
Analyze each purchase request for need, volume, price and quantity
Manage open PO's, back orders and inventory levels, alerting Customer Service immediately to changes to deliver on time, in full and in spec (DIFOTIS)
Negotiate prices, discount terms, or transportation arrangements with suppliers.
Authorize payment of invoices or return of merchandise.
Monitor and analyze sales records, trends, or economic conditions to anticipate customer buying patterns to determine how much inventory is needed.
Control stock levels based on forecasts/analysis, min/max numbers and min/max reports Essential Functions
Facilitate new item set up including tapoffs, proof approval, etc.
Maintain thorough email records
Assist with slow moving inventory
Expedite material based on customer needs
Build relationships with suppliers
Serve as liaison with customer service, sales, design, manufacturing, shipping and corporate strategic procurement
Utilize knowledge of market trends and guidance and information to make insightful purchasing decisions
Participate as required in Procurement Council and initiatives
Qualifications
Educational/ Training Requirements/ Experience
Bachelor's Degree preferred
Critical thinking and negotiation skills.
Knowledge of business principles is advantageous
Minimum Skills, Knowledge & Ability Requirements
Proficient in Microsoft Office
Strong organizational and communication skills; ability to prioritize tasks
Demonstrated initiative in personal professional development
Basic arithmetic including gross profit calculation
Attention to detail and accuracy
High level of ethics & personal integrity
Cross functional influencing and conflict management skills