Purchasing Agent

Our History: 

The Storyteller Overland vibe started out as a drawing on a restaurant napkin in 2017 illustrating a desire to help people live more adventurous lives. Back then, very few had ever heard of an adventure van, and some at the restaurant table with CEO Jeffrey Hunter had doubts it would ever sell.

The company officially launched in 2018 with a humble yet confident team of seven employees. Over the next year, we worked on launching our MODE 4x4 and finding dealer partners to work with, and finally, the dream was turning into a reality.

We’ve been fortunate to be full speed ahead since then. We’ve added sister companies to our galaxy and built out quite the impressive team – hopefully you included. We hit 500 vans built, then 1,000, then so many more that these milestones became difficult to keep track of. We’ve added new vehicles to our lineup and have built a massive community of like-minded adventurers that also continues to grow.

As we reflect on our history, though, we remind ourselves that our best ideas are still ahead of us, not behind us. Here’s to saying yes to the next grand adventure!

Workplace Vibe:

We are proud to have a values-based culture, which means we focus less on rules & transacting and more on values & transforming. Our goal is to create workplaces and spaces where great people can do great things in order to thrive and flourish both professionally and personally. 

Overview: 

As a Purchasing Agent you will assist in the daily operations of Storyteller’s procurement team. You will take full ownership of procurement vendor relationships, inventory ordering, tracking, and challenges and see them through to resolution as they are your own all while being an exceptional team player and a superior brand ambassador of our reputation within our vibrant community of vanlifers, adventure seekers, and outdoor enthusiasts.  

General Responsibilities: 

• Issue and manage purchase orders based on vendor lead times, production schedules, and forecasted stocking levels to ensure the timely availability of materials needed to build high-quality products,
• Utilize the Business ERP system to monitor inventory levels, analyze data trends, and continuously improve procurement and inventory management processes,
• Establish and maintain strong, professional business relationships with key suppliers and vendors to ensure reliable sourcing and competitive pricing,
• Negotiate pricing, contracts, and terms with suppliers to optimize cost-efficiency while maintaining high-quality standards,
• Track and monitor order statuses, ensuring timely delivery of materials, and proactively address delays, shortages, or other supply chain disruptions to minimize impacts on production,
• Develop contingency plans to mitigate risks from supply chain interruptions, including identifying alternative suppliers or materials as needed,
• Collaborate closely with production, warehouse, and quality teams to align procurement strategies with operational needs and address any materials-related challenges,
• Maintain accurate records of purchasing activities, supplier performance, and inventory transactions to ensure compliance and traceability,
• Conduct regular supplier performance evaluations and provide feedback to enhance the quality and reliability of the supply chain,
• Monitor inventory turnover rates and adjust purchasing strategies to balance stock availability with cost-effective inventory management,
• Participate in cross-functional meetings to align on production goals and ensure the timely availability of required materials,
• Willingness to occasionally work on the manufacturing floor and in the warehouse, including tasks such as inventory counting,
• Contribute to the overall success of the procurement team by co-elevating  with all team members through collaboration, cooperation, and camaraderie,
• Perform additional responsibilities and tasks as assigned to support organizational and team goals.

Work Location:

• In Office (Birmingham, Alabama)

Qualifications/Skills:

Netsuite ERP experience a plus, buying experience, supply chain management, MS Office or G Suite familiarity, aptitude for learning new things quickly, high level of attention to detail, good problem solver, solid data entry practices, strong communication skills, active listener, juggler of many tasks simultaneously well, patient, emotionally intelligent, and strong relationship builder.

Education and Experience: 

• 2 years of supply chain experience a plus
• 2 years of manufacturing inventory management a plus
• Bachelor’s/Master’s Degree a plus
• Experience partnering with vendors/suppliers
• Proven track record of working in a fast-paced, high-stress position that requires high levels of attention to detail

Position Scorecard: 

• Core Competencies - Procurement and Supply Chain Expertise, Analytical Skills, Attention to Detail, Negotiation Skills, Problem Solving Skills, Time Management, Organizational Skills, Adaptability, Market & Industry Awareness, Team Collaboration, Commitment to Quality & Ethics, and Strategic Thinking.
• Position Mission - The mission of the Purchasing Agent is to ensure the seamless procurement of high-quality materials and supplies necessary for production by fostering strong vendor relationships and optimizing purchasing processes. By aligning procurement strategies with production goals, this role supports the timely delivery of exceptional products while maintaining cost efficiency and supply chain resilience.
• Anticipated Outcome - Maintain a reliable, cost-effective supply chain that ensures the timely availability of high-quality materials to support uninterrupted production and uphold Storyteller Overland’s standards of excellence.

Physical Requirements: 

Candidates should be prepared for the following:

• Sitting: The majority of the workday will be spent sitting at a desk, using a computer, and performing tasks that require sustained attention and focus.
• Light Lifting: Occasionally, employees may need to lift and carry boxes or office supplies weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Reaching and Stretching: There may be instances where reaching or stretching is required to access files, office equipment, or supplies.
• Visual and Mental Concentration: The position may require employees to read documents, analyze data, and perform tasks that demand a high level of visual and mental concentration.
• Repetitive Tasks: Some tasks may involve repetitive motions, such as filing, scanning, or using office equipment, which may require attention to ergonomics and comfort.
• Ability to Sit and Stand for Meetings: Meetings or discussions may require employees to sit or stand for varying periods.
  

It's important to note that this job primarily involves office-based work, and the physical demands are generally minimal. Accommodations will be provided as needed to ensure the comfort and well-being of employees in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

Exemption Status: Exempt