Purchasing Agent

Purchasing Agent

Detroit, Michigan, United States

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