Purchasing Agent

PURPOSE STATEMENT

- Economically and efficiently purchase goods and services to commensurate with policies and objectives, while adhering to a strict standard of business ethics and integrity.
- This position is responsible for contract negotiations, development and implementation of agreements that maximize value and support client initiatives, and standardization of materials, services and suppliers.
- This position will work on the definition and resolution of known or anticipated problems in value, quality, feasibility, and specifications in the procurement of goods and services, while contributing cost savings and other value added activity to support customer needs and expectations.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

- Responsible for compliance with applicable policies and procedures.
- Demonstrates knowledge of external guidelines (eg, FDA, Customs, TSCA, USDA, PhRMA) to ensure compliance.
- Responsible for sourcing, bidding, negotiating, contracting, and purchasing goods and services based on category of spend supported. Review and approve all requisitions per the category in a timely manner.
- Identify, develop, and implement improved and standardized buying practices to ensure adequacy of supply chain.
- Educate requistioners on the same. Seek innovative solutions for the procurement process, develop action plans and participate in cross-functional, cross-divisional teams.
- Develop raw material standard guidelines and updates with minimal review from management (DIRECT) In-depth knowledge of all compliance requirement and the implications for each category of spend. (INDIRECT)
- Act as an interface for assigned suppliers globally.
- Provide support to ensure continuous improvement in supplier/company interface.
- Seek, develop, and establish business relationships with diverse suppliers.
- Meet regularly with Stakeholders and support functions to ensure customer satisfaction and continuous improvement.
- Analyze supplier performance using rating system using established rating systems (eg, supplier metrics program, supplier's goals, etc.).
- Seek, develop, and maintain business relationships with suppliers.
- Expert in the use of procurement tools including but not limited to; ETC, SAP, Ariba, SNAPP, economic indicators, contract management.
- Proactive management of category and suppliers including, anticipation, resolution and communication.
- Effectively develops and negotiates agreements.
- Responsible for mentoring junior purchasing professionals.
- Develop and obtain client approval of category sourcing strategies.
- Develops and maintains a supply base that ensures the best value for quality, delivery, pricing, service, etc.
- Develops and maintains necessary files and records to maximize performance in completing job functions.
- Perform on-going analysis and cost reductions to ensure the lowest overall cost and highest possible value for dollars spent.
- Ability to perform in a multi-task environment without supervision.
- Understand and apply cultural awareness with foreign business entities.

SKILLS:

QUALIFICATIONS:

- Bachelor's Degree: Engineering, Science, Business, or Financial Degrees. CPM certification desired.
- Total combined minimum years of experience required: 4.
- Must possess the appropriate level of skills necessary to effectively interface with all levels of employees and suppliers.
- Required experiences to include: Negotiation, Project Management, Cost analysis, Financial Analysis, and Contracting Experience
- Computer applications (word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations).
- Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
- Possess the potential to advance to higher purchasing positions.