Buyer

The Buyer is responsible for performing purchasing activities in alignment with company policies, procedures, and best practices to ensure cost-effective, ethical, efficient, and professional procurement processes. This role focuses on maximizing value through sourcing, negotiations, formal bidding, and other strategic purchasing initiatives while maintaining a strong customer service orientation.

Core responsibilities include procuring goods and services, coordinating transactions with company requisitioners, and ensuring purchasing needs are met efficiently and effectively. Additional duties may involve identifying and executing sourcing opportunities, reviewing and managing contracts, and supporting the development and implementation of value-driven procurement strategies. The Buyer plays a vital role in driving organizational efficiency and achieving cost-saving goals.

The Buyer plays a crucial role in supporting Hawaii Gas’ Vision and Mission by implementing and maintaining effective purchasing and warehouse policies, while driving best practice procurement strategies that align with the company’s operational and customer-focused objectives. This role is vital in managing inventory, executing procurement strategies, and optimizing processes to meet the demands of a growing business.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage purchasing and inventory of assigned goods and services, ensuring accurate reconciliation and file maintenance.
• Oversee and approve invoices up to $50,000.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings, value improvements, and process optimization through automation, standardization, and consolidation.
• Support formal RFx writing, execution, and contract management.
• Conduct data analysis to enhance purchasing efficiency and explore new opportunities.
• Develop and monitor benchmarks for the effectiveness of procurement processes and systems.
• Provide professional customer service while working independently and collaboratively to achieve departmental goals.
• Assist in audits and maintain SOX controls.
  
  
  

Additional Responsibilities

• Promote and adhere to safety protocols and company policies.
• Perform housekeeping duties and maintain a safe, organized work environment.
• Collaborate as a team player to support department and customer needs.
  
  
  

This role requires a proactive, analytical, and solution-oriented individual capable of balancing daily purchasing responsibilities with strategic procurement initiatives to support Hawaii Gas’s operational excellence.

Education and Experience

• Required Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration or a related field, with 1-5 years of relevant professional experience.
• Preferred Advanced degree (MBA) and over 5 years of experience in sourcing, purchasing, supplier management, or contract management.
  
  
  

Key Skills and Competencies

• Strong communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills with the ability to influence and build consensus.
• Proven experience managing expenditures and organizing teams to drive cost reduction and value improvements.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, ERP systems, and tools like Microsoft Dynamics GP, Project, and Visio.
  
  
  

Certifications and Licenses

• Required Valid Hawaii driver’s license with access to a registered and insured vehicle.
• Preferred NAPM Certification or equivalent, or actively pursuing certification.
  
  
  

This role requires a blend of educational expertise, hands-on experience, and strategic thinking to effectively manage purchasing functions and support organizational goals.