Buyer

Essential Job Functions:

• Maximizing participation of small, local, and minority business enterprises in contracts, professional services, and goods and services in accordance with company direction and strategy;
• Development of internal strategies and coordination to implement methods to achieve purchasing objectives and monitor compliance with all policies, procedures, and applicable laws.
• Provide advice and guidance for the appropriate handling of bidder participation; 
• Evaluate and meet with diverse suppliers to assess their capabilities and drive opportunities to increase participation of diverse suppliers in the procurement process;
• Identify, research, and evaluate suppliers that meet the standards of price, quality, timing, and reliability of products and services. Ensure contracts are negotiated and executed in a timely and accurate manner;
• Serve as a subject matter expert in managing high complexity strategic sourcing transactions, negotiations, and supplier selection for products and services. Manage relationships for suppliers within the category;
• Perform supply market data analysis and recommends suppliers and vendors;
• Recognize ineffective strategies or processes and recommend alternative approaches or solutions to capitalize on change.
• Arrange transport of goods and track orders to ensure timely delivery.
• Update inventory and ensure that stock levels are kept at appropriate levels.
•  Process requisitions and update management on the status of orders.
•  Assess the quality of stock received and escalate any discrepancies to suppliers and management.
• Domestic travel, up to 10%

Qualifications:

• Progressively responsible experience in Supplier Diversity purchasing activities to include partnerships WITH SUPPLIER Diversity organizations and development of Corporate Supplier Diversity initiatives
• Experience in the supervision of others and building effective relationships with people from diverse backgrounds at all levels of management
• Strong computer skills, including working knowledge of MS Office Suite
• Knowledge of integrated purchasing & financial systems
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills along with the ability to communicate with all levels of management