Overview

Responsible for the review and conversion of customer purchase requests into an appropriate purchase order or transaction. Sources items by establishing pricing and other terms for those requests not covered by Mercyhealth system value analysis standards, existing agreements with the Group Purchasing Organization, or Mercyhealth direct agreements. Processes capital equipment, service, and other non-traditional transactions. Processes purchasing data using existing MMIS system. Researches product options and prepares financial analysis related to those products. Works with vendors concerning products, prices, and availability including backorders, substitutions, and recalls. Initiates stock item changes to include additions, deletions, or other modifications with the supply chain data team. Works with accounts payable and receiving to reconcile vendor invoices and returns. Advises departments on items available to meet needs. Obtains samples, quotes, and contracts. Provides superior customer service. Responsible for special projects and other duties as assigned.

Responsibilities

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Effectively uses the MMIS system for transactions and coordinates all activities related to procurement of an item beginning with intent to purchase through delivery.
• Enforces item sourcing and pricing strategies prior to investigating alternatives. Analyzes the requirements of the item, including preliminary specifications, preferred supplier, and date commodity is needed.
• Solicits and evaluates proposals for non-standard items. Investigates and/or interviews potential suppliers to determine if they meet the specified requirements.
• Advises team members or management on the appropriate item/supplier to be used.
• Negotiates the lowest possible cost for the item balanced against the optimum quality and schedule needs. Works with their manager to use the system Value analysis Teams to make the final product decision
• At the direction of their manager, implements pricing agreements that comply with company and government regulations.
• Works with Account Payable and receiving to prevent/eliminate cost variances and receiving issues so that accuracy is maintained while reducing invoicing/payment issues.
• Assures that the commodity is delivered on schedule, at the negotiated price, and meets the quality standards of the company.
• Runs reports to manage timely control of orders, shipping notices, and other documents to assure response times and accurate retention of records.
• Coordinates appropriate methods needed to distribute commodity in a cost effective manner
• Initiates product recalls and related returns between users and vendors
• Works with sourcing specialists to convert items to new vendor's products
• Works on various sourcing projects as needed
• Processes P-Card requests adhering to established guidelines
• Initiates product recalls and related returns between users and vendors
• Works with sourcing specialists to convert items to new vendor's products
• Works on various sourcing projects as needed
• Processes P-Card requests adhering to established guidelines
• Initiates product recalls and related returns between users and vendors
• Works with sourcing specialists to convert items to new vendor's products
• Works on various sourcing projects as needed
• Processes P-Card requests adhering to established guidelines

Culture of Excellence Behavior Expectations

To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following behavior expectations:Quality - Follows policies and procedures; adapts to and manages changes in the environment; Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness giving attention to details; Looks for ways to improve and promote quality; Applies feedback to improve performance; Manages time and prioritizes effectively to achieve organizational goals.Service - Responds promptly to requests for service and assistance; Follows the Mercyhealth Critical Moments of service; Meets commitments; Abides by MH confidentiality and security agreement; Shows respect and sensitivity for cultural differences; and effectively communicates information to partners; Thinks system wide regarding processes and functions.Partnering - Shows commitment to the Mission of Mercyhealth and Culture of Excellence through all words and actions; Exhibits objectivity and openness to other's views; Demonstrates a high level of participation and engagement in day-to-day work; Gives and welcomes feedback; Generates suggestions for improving work: Embraces teamwork, supports and encourages positive change while giving value to individuals.Cost - Conserves organization resources; Understands fiscal responsibility; Works within approved budget; Develops and implements cost saving measures; contributes to profits and revenue.

Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply chain, or technical field from a four-year college or technical school preferred; and/or seven-ten years’ experience as a buyer; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience in healthcare and/or supply chain required.

Certification and Licensure

N/A

Skills and Abilities•May be required to work additional hours during peak periods•Proficient in math with knowledge of basic accounting principles•Strong teamwork abilities, including the ability to effectively communicate with groups•Ability to understand technical and medical terminology as they relate to products used.•Ability to apply work independently and apply thought and judgement•Highly detailed oriented with strong oral, written, and presentation skills.•Ability to organize work priorities and meet specific objectives under time constraints.•Knowledge of buying procedures, decision making ability, and the ability to seek and find solutions to problems and process improvement•Very Good interpersonal/communication skills.•Demonstrated competency with standard Mercyhealth applications such as Outlook, MS Office and MS Excel.•Ability to effectively use applicable MMIS systemSpecial Physical Demands

The Special Physical Demands are considered Essential Job Function of the position with or without accommodations.While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel and reach with hands and arms. The employee is frequently required to talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stand and walk. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision requirements for this job include close vision, distance vision, and peripheral vision.

Level of Supervision

Assignments are normally received in the form of results expected and due dates. Only general procedures are available to guide work. Must be able to work independently.

Supervises

N/A