Purchasing Agent

Purchasing Agent / Procurement Specialist Reports to: Supply Chain Manager / Operations Director Department: OperationsPosition SummaryThe Purchasing Agent is responsible for sourcing, negotiating, and procuring raw materials, supplies, and services required to support production, operations, and customer fulfillment. This role ensures material availability, cost control, supplier performance, and alignment with production schedules in a fast-paced paper converting and label manufacturing environment.Key ResponsibilitiesProcurement & SourcingPurchase raw materials including:Paper (roll stock, specialty grades)Adhesives, inks, coatingsFilms, liners, packaging materialsOutsourced Finished GoodsSource and qualify new suppliers to improve cost, quality, and lead timesMaintain approved vendor list and supplier performance metricsCost Management & NegotiationNegotiate pricing, contracts, and supply agreementsIdentify cost-saving opportunities through:Volume purchasingVendor consolidationAlternative materials or suppliersMonitor market trends (paper pricing, freight, etc..) Inventory & Planning CoordinationCollaborate with Production, Scheduling, and Sales to:Ensure adequate inventory levelsPrevent negative and overstock situationsManage reorder points, safety stock, and lead timesSupport demand forecasting and material planningSupplier ManagementTrack vendor performance (on-time delivery, quality, pricing)Resolve supply chain issues, shortages, and quality concernsCoordinate with suppliers on delivery schedules and forecastsERP & DocumentationEnter and manage purchase orders in ERP system (e.g., NetSuite, etc.)Maintain accurate purchasing records, pricing, and lead timesEnsure compliance with company purchasing policiesCross-Functional CollaborationWork closely with:Operations / Production ManagersQuality AssuranceFinance (cost tracking, AP support)Sales (special material requirements)Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)Material cost reduction / cost avoidanceOn-time material availability (no production downtime)Inventory turns & carrying cost controlSupplier on-time delivery and quality performancePurchase price variance (PPV)QualificationsEducation & ExperienceBachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, or related field (preferred)3–7+ years purchasing experience in:Paper convertingLabel manufacturingPrinting or packaging industries (strongly preferred)Skills & CompetenciesStrong negotiation and vendor management skillsKnowledge of paper grades, adhesives, films, and converting materials (preferred)ERP/MRP system experience (NetSuite experience a plus)Analytical and cost management mindsetAbility to work in a fast-paced, production-driven environmentWork EnvironmentManufacturing facility with office responsibilitiesRegular interaction with production floor and warehouseMay require occasional travel to suppliersReporting StructureReports to: Supply Chain Manager / Operations DirectorWorks closely with Production Manager, Scheduling, and Finance