The Purchasing Specialist plays a crucial role in supporting our purpose of creating lasting value for those we serve by helping the company gain additional market share and focus on the profitability of a specific set of product lines within our business for Van Meter, Inc (VM). The primary responsibilities of this position include purchasing, cost negotiation, data integrity and making solid pricing and product decisions for our business while collaborating across departments. This position builds strong relationships with suppliers, as well as with the company’s sales and pricing teams. The Purchasing Specialist is a self-starter, works autonomously and sets an example for others. This individual will impact the business by growing sales, market share and overall profitability. This individual’s behavior promotes our culture, our 5 P’s and our purpose to create lasting value for those we serve. Key Responsibilities & Essential Functions: Drive improvements in market share and profitability for designated lines Optimize inventory levels based on market needs and financial return Manage in-to-stock price file Develop and foster key relationships with local representatives and suppliers Build strong relationships with the sales team and members of the purchasing and pricing teams Manage customer sell strategies Collaborate with sales and pricing teams to implement competitive and profitable day-to-day selling strategies Develop a keen understanding of local market distributor/manufacturer competition and market selling levels Develop an intimate knowledge of the company’s inventory system (Eclipse) as it relates to procurement and inventory management Manage product data files Maintain data integrity Take advantage of buying power by negotiating purchases and establishing effective buying schedules Support company’s 3P’s sales support approach Promote our culture and our 5 P’s Critical Success Factors: Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively across departments Able to create a teaming atmosphere with internal customers Strong negotiation skills, which will benefit the company financially while maintaining solid relationships with internal customers and suppliers Willingness to take managed risks Able to analyze trends, cost/pricing strategies, and best practices to constantly improve product line performance Willingness to give and receive constructive feedback Ability to understand and implement our processes and procedures Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously while meeting deadlines Must lead by example by displaying a positive work ethic and attitude Ability to learn, grow, and adapt to change Ability to make sound decisions with minimal guidance Strong analytical skills and ability to solve problems and develop solutions Drive for continuous improvement Dependable Job Requirements/Specifications: 0-2 years of experience with an Associate’s Degree, four-year degree preferred Education in Pricing Strategy is a plus Electrical product knowledge is a plus Previous sales or customer service experience required Proven negotiation skills required Knowledge of the electrical wholesale distribution industry preferred Contractor market experience preferred Proficient in Microsoft Office software, specifically Excel and Access Experience with purchasing software systems required. Eclipse experience preferred |