Associate Buyer

About the Role:

The Associate Buyer plays a critical role in supporting the procurement and purchasing functions within the organization to ensure the timely acquisition of goods and services at optimal costs. This position involves collaborating closely with suppliers, vendors, and internal teams to maintain inventory levels, negotiate pricing, and evaluate product quality. The Associate Buyer contributes to the development and execution of purchasing strategies that align with company goals and market trends. By analyzing market data and supplier performance, the Associate Buyer helps to identify opportunities for cost savings and process improvements. Ultimately, this role ensures that the supply chain operates efficiently, supporting the overall business objectives and customer satisfaction.

Minimum Qualifications:

• 1-3 years of experience in purchasing, procurement, or supply chain roles.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel, and experience with procurement software or ERP systems.
• Strong analytical and negotiation skills with attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in manufacturing, or distribution industries.
• Familiarity with inventory management and demand forecasting techniques.
• Certification in procurement or supply chain management a plus (e.g., CPSM, CPIM).
• Knowledge of contract law and supplier compliance standards.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities effectively.

Responsibilities:

• Assist in sourcing and purchasing products and materials according to company requirements and specifications.
• Evaluate supplier proposals, negotiate prices, terms, and delivery schedules to secure advantageous terms.
• Monitor inventory levels and coordinate with warehouse and production teams to maintain optimal stock.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers to ensure quality, reliability, and timely delivery.
• Analyze market trends and supplier performance data to recommend improvements and cost-saving initiatives.
• Prepare and process purchase orders, track shipments, and resolve any discrepancies or issues.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including finance, logistics, and quality assurance to support procurement activities.
• Maintain accurate records of purchases, pricing, and supplier contracts for reporting and audit purposes.

Skills:

The Associate Buyer utilizes strong analytical skills daily to assess supplier proposals, market trends, and inventory data to make informed purchasing decisions. Effective negotiation skills are essential to secure favorable terms and build lasting supplier relationships that benefit the company. Proficiency with procurement software and Microsoft Excel enables efficient tracking of orders, pricing, and supplier performance metrics. Communication skills are critical for collaborating with internal teams and external vendors to ensure alignment and resolve issues promptly. Additionally, organizational skills help manage multiple purchase orders and deadlines, ensuring a smooth and cost-effective supply chain operation.