Buyers and Purchasing Agents

About the Role

Buyers and Purchasing Agents are professionals responsible for sourcing and acquiring goods and services for organizations to ensure they meet market demands and operational needs.

Other Common Titles

Procurement Specialist
Purchasing Manager
Sourcing Agent
Buying Agent
Supply Chain Buyer

Typical Tasks

Research and assess potential suppliers and vendors in the marketplace.
Negotiate prices, terms, and conditions with suppliers to secure favorable agreements.
Monitor inventory levels and forecast future purchasing needs based on sales trends and product demand.
Issue purchase orders and track order fulfillment and delivery.
Evaluate supplier performance and quality assurance to ensure compliance with company standards.
Resolve any issues related to product delivery, quality discrepancies, or payment discrepancies.
Analyze market trends and pricing to make informed purchasing decisions.

Notable People

Ruth Simmons – Known for her innovative procurement strategies that enhanced supply chain efficiency at major corporations.
Brian C. Smith – An expert in sustainable sourcing who has contributed to numerous environmental initiatives in procurement.

Recommended Resources

The Purchasing and Supply Manager’s Guide to Supplier Evaluation
This book provides practical insights and tools for evaluating suppliers and optimizing procurement processes.
Supply Chain Management Review
A leading publication offering insights and research on supply chain management and procurement trends.
Procurement Podcast
A podcast that explores various topics in procurement and purchasing, featuring interviews with industry experts.
CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply)
A professional body that offers qualifications, training, and resources for procurement professionals.