We are looking for a dynamic purchasing associate to join our company As a Purchasing Agent for our tobacco wholesale company, you will play a crucial role in sourcing, procuring, and managing inventory of tobacco products and related supplies. Your primary objective will be to ensure that we maintain optimal inventory levels while securing competitive pricing and favorable terms from suppliers.

To ensure success as a purchasing associate, you should have excellent customer service skills and the ability to interact effectively with a variety of staff members in all departments. Ultimately, an outstanding purchasing associate should have strong business acumen, as well as a detailed, nuanced understanding of the buying process.

Purchasing Associate Responsibilities:

• Creating purchasing orders and procuring company goods and products based on an approved budget.

· Develop and maintain strong relationships with tobacco product suppliers, negotiating pricing, terms, and contracts to secure favorable agreements.

· Monitor inventory levels, anticipate demand, and place orders to ensure adequate stock levels while minimizing excess inventory and associated costs.

• Stay informed about market trends, pricing fluctuations, and supply chain disruptions that may impact purchasing decisions, providing insights and recommendations to management.
• Creating a database of invoices, purchase orders, quote requests, vendor or supplier contracts, and updating it as needed.
• Reviewing all purchase-related documents for errors before it is sent to the accounting department.
• Tracking and maintaining the status of orders, and reporting any delivery issues to affected supervisors.
• Responding to emergency requests and expediting orders as needed.
• Creating monthly and annual purchase reports for management review.
• Ensuring all purchased goods and services are up to company standards and in compliance with relevant federal or state laws.

Purchasing Associate Requirements:

• A bachelor's degree in finance, business, or a similar field.
• A minimum of 2 years' experience as a purchasing associate, or a similar role.
• Excellent knowledge of financial best practices and the buying process.
• Working knowledge of procurement management software (ManageMore and various vendor portals).

· Strong negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

· Knowledge of tobacco products, industry regulations, and supply chain best practices is desirable.

• The ability to create strong working relationships with personnel, vendors, and management.
• Meticulous attention to detail and accuracy.
• Exceptional organizational and time-management skills.