What are the responsibilities and job description for the Purchasing Specialist position at Westlake?
Job Summary
This role is responsible for organizing and supervising all purchasing activities, including expediting and negotiating with vendors to ensure timely deliveries.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Manage the flow of purchasing documents and control purchasing activities with external suppliers.
- Negotiate purchases to achieve the most economical advantage for the Company.
- Leverage yearly purchases to achieve the lowest total cost for goods through repeatable purchases, supply base identification, and sourcing strategies.
- Prepare and submit quotes and requisitioned materials and equipment following evaluation.
- Expedite critical orders and resolve purchase/billing discrepancies.
- Maintain a preferred vendor database based on previous cost, quality of service, reliability, and types of goods and materials.
- Assist in researching logistical information for Plant departments and assist Accounting in resolving purchase/billing discrepancies.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Business or Engineering field with a minimum of 2 years of purchasing/procurement experience.
- Effective communication skills and strong business background involving realistic expectations and cost controls.
- Ability to motivate and lead non-reports in the purchasing function and non-purchasing functions.
- ERP experience - JDE or SAP preferred.
