Purchasing Agent

At Imagine we go beyond print to help our clients deliver game-changing visual communications from concept to delivery that set the standard for our industry. The first step in this process is hiring great employees! Our innovative teams are the most committed, highly experienced artisans in the business. We are committed to delivering high-quality marketing solutions, in every environment and campaign, helping our clients capture the heart, minds, and loyalty of their customers. For more than 30 years, The Imagine Group has established itself as one of the most influential and innovative visual communications companies in the industry. Join us and let’s Imagine a better way together.

Position Summary:

The Purchasing Agent is responsible for ensuring continuous supply and timely procurement of assigned items within the quality and quantity parameters established by the Company. This position requires identifying, facilitating approval, and integrating alternative products, suppliers and/or supply solutions to leverage lower total cost of ownership, lead-times, on-time deliveries, higher quality, and stable supply.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

• Manage day to day business relationship with key suppliers through supporting activities including ordering, communication of demand/volume/delivery time changes, issue resolution, sharing of end user feedback, follow-up on backorders, etc.
• Develop a strong understanding and knowledge of suppliers and capabilities within the Printing industry.
• Develop sourcing strategies for assigned commodities.
• Forecast level of demand with services and products to meet business needs. Continuously analyze inventory usage and balances.
• Forecast price trends and their impact on future activities.
• Collaborate and communicate effectively across different organizational levels.
• Maintain supplier price lists and discount terms and allowances.
• Develop knowledge of materials used, best suppliers, and negotiate the most competitive prices.
• Identify and implement cost savings.
• Track order status through delivery and communicate status to production.
• Process invoices and credits, authorize and approve invoice quantity and payment.
• Verify and justify supply/material requisitions and initiates Purchase Orders.
• Maintains inventory of assigned commodities.
• Design, recommend and implement systems to improve material and process workflow.
• Keep supervisor informed of status, progress, and complications of assigned commodities.
• Other duties as required.

Mandatory Qualifications:

• Proven experience in purchasing or supply chain management, in manufacturing industry.
• Strong negotiation skills and familiarity with procurement processes.
• Experience with inventory management, logistics, and vendor relations.
• Ability to work in diverse production systems effectively, including proprietary systems.
• Proficiency in using procurement software and tools.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Skill in organization, prioritization, and time management.
• Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills.
• Advanced proficiency utilizing Microsoft Office Suite.
• Team player with the ability to work across multiple functions and disciplines.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 2-4 years of experience in print industry.
• Understanding of print industry materials, processes, and suppliers.
• Knowledge of market trends and cost analysis.
• Experience in managing complex procurement projects.
• Certifications such as Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) or Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP).
• Knowledge of printing equipment including run speeds, substrates, and most efficient methods for production.
• Bilingual or multilingual proficiency in any language (including ASL) preferred.

Physical Requirements:

• Frequent sitting for prolong period of time.
• Occasional walking, bending, pulling, and stooping required.
• Manual dexterity.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The national pay range for this role is $55,800 - $65,400 a year. The pay range may be slightly lower or higher based on the geographic location. The actual pay offered may vary based upon, but not limited to education, skills, experience, proficiency, performance, shift, and location. In addition to base salary, depending on the role, the total compensation package may also include participation in a bonus, commission, or incentive program. Imagine offers benefits including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, disability insurance, 401(k) with match, life insurance and other voluntary supplemental insurance coverages, plus tuition assistance, caregiver leave, adoption assistance, and employer/partner discounts.

Imagine is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. Diversity and Inclusion are not just a checked box, it is a critical part of our commitment to deliver innovative solutions to our clients and provide a great place to work for our entire Imagine family. We are focused on building a diverse and inclusive workforce. If you are excited about this role but do not meet 100% of the qualifications listed above, we encourage you to apply.