The Position

Develop and maintain a program of policies, systems, methods and procedures for the effective management and control of the purchasing function to reduce costs and produce additional income within assigned commodities. Compile and analyze statistical data to determine feasibility of buying products and to establish price objectives for contract transactions. Obtain data for cost analysis studies by determining manufacturing costs within divisions of company. Prepare reports, charts, and graphs of findings. Evaluate findings and make recommendations regarding feasibility of manufacturing or buying needed products. Recommend use of alternative parts, materials, or manufacturing methods to reduce costs. Order stock and nonstock supplies. Process requisitions, research products, clarify specifications, type purchase orders, follow up back orders, select vendors, and maintain up-to-date product information files.

Responsibilities

Processes requisitions for supplies, researches products, clarifies specifications, documents competitive bidding, types purchase orders. Follows up back orders, expedites delivery of orders, and makes special arrangements for delivery; communicates to the department the expected delivery date. Researches and selects vendors in given circumstances, evaluates vendor performance, utilizes different vendor sources to fill as directed. Maintains an up-to-date filing system on pricing and vendors to ensure immediate and accurate access to information. Searches out alternate vendors or supplies during periods of shortages or stockouts. Deals with vendors and manufacturers, which often involves persuading potential vendors to undertake the manufacture of custom-designed items according to complex and rigid specifications. Purchases high volume items and materials that cover extended contract periods. Negotiates requirements for pre-production samples, spare parts, customized technical literature, and patent and royalty protection. Keeps abreast of market and product developments and interviews representatives for potential new sources of supply.