Creswell Richardson
Purchasing Agent – Creswell Richardson
We are seeking an experienced Procurement Specialist to manage the sourcing, purchasing, and supplier relationships for our industrial distribution operations. The ideal candidate will have strong negotiation skills, deep knowledge of industrial products and supply chains, and a proven track record of optimizing procurement processes to support business growth.
This position reports directly to the CFO. This is an exempt position.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities Sourcing & Purchasing
Source and procure industrial products including MRO supplies, tools, equipment, fasteners, safety products, and related materials from manufacturers and distributors
Develop and execute strategic sourcing initiatives to ensure optimal pricing, quality, and delivery performance
Issue purchase orders, manage order fulfillment, and track shipments to ensure timely delivery
Maintain optimal inventory levels while minimizing excess stock and obsolescence
Confirm preferred stock levels setup in ERP system
Identify, evaluate, and onboard new suppliers to expand product offerings and improve competitive positioning
Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers and manufacturers
Negotiate contracts, pricing agreements, and payment terms to achieve cost savings and favourable conditions
Monitor supplier performance including quality, delivery, and service metrics
Resolve supplier issues including quality defects, delivery delays, and billing discrepancies
Cost Management & Analysis
Analyze market trends, commodity pricing, and competitive landscape to inform purchasing decisions
Identify cost reduction opportunities through product substitutions, volume consolidation, or alternative suppliers
Track monthly vendor rebates to ensure refunds are maximised and accurate
Generate reports on procurement activities, spending analysis, and cost savings initiatives
Support budgeting and forecasting processes with accurate spend data
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Partner with sales, operations, and warehouse teams to understand product needs and customer requirements
Coordinate with logistics on inbound freight and delivery scheduling
Work with finance on payment processing and vendor account management
Support new product launches and special projects requiring procurement expertise
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related field (or equivalent experience)
3‑5 years of procurement experience, preferably in industrial distribution, wholesale, or manufacturing environments
Strong knowledge of industrial products, MRO supplies, and related markets
Proven negotiation skills with demonstrated cost savings achievements
Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook
Advanced Excel skills for data analysis and reporting
Excellent communication and relationship‑building abilities
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with e‑procurement platforms and supplier portals
Knowledge of import/export regulations and international sourcing
Familiarity with lean principles and continuous improvement methodologies
Understanding of industrial distribution channels and business models
Analytical thinking and problem‑solving
Attention to detail and accuracy
Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
Strong organisational and time‑management skills
Collaborative team player with customer service orientation
Adaptability in a fast‑paced, changing environment
Seniority level Mid‑Senior level
Employment type Full‑time
Job function Purchasing and Supply Chain
Industries Automation Machinery Manufacturing
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This position reports directly to the CFO. This is an exempt position.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities Sourcing & Purchasing
Source and procure industrial products including MRO supplies, tools, equipment, fasteners, safety products, and related materials from manufacturers and distributors
Develop and execute strategic sourcing initiatives to ensure optimal pricing, quality, and delivery performance
Issue purchase orders, manage order fulfillment, and track shipments to ensure timely delivery
Maintain optimal inventory levels while minimizing excess stock and obsolescence
Confirm preferred stock levels setup in ERP system
Identify, evaluate, and onboard new suppliers to expand product offerings and improve competitive positioning
Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers and manufacturers
Negotiate contracts, pricing agreements, and payment terms to achieve cost savings and favourable conditions
Monitor supplier performance including quality, delivery, and service metrics
Resolve supplier issues including quality defects, delivery delays, and billing discrepancies
Cost Management & Analysis
Analyze market trends, commodity pricing, and competitive landscape to inform purchasing decisions
Identify cost reduction opportunities through product substitutions, volume consolidation, or alternative suppliers
Track monthly vendor rebates to ensure refunds are maximised and accurate
Generate reports on procurement activities, spending analysis, and cost savings initiatives
Support budgeting and forecasting processes with accurate spend data
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Partner with sales, operations, and warehouse teams to understand product needs and customer requirements
Coordinate with logistics on inbound freight and delivery scheduling
Work with finance on payment processing and vendor account management
Support new product launches and special projects requiring procurement expertise
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related field (or equivalent experience)
3‑5 years of procurement experience, preferably in industrial distribution, wholesale, or manufacturing environments
Strong knowledge of industrial products, MRO supplies, and related markets
Proven negotiation skills with demonstrated cost savings achievements
Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook
Advanced Excel skills for data analysis and reporting
Excellent communication and relationship‑building abilities
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with e‑procurement platforms and supplier portals
Knowledge of import/export regulations and international sourcing
Familiarity with lean principles and continuous improvement methodologies
Understanding of industrial distribution channels and business models
Analytical thinking and problem‑solving
Attention to detail and accuracy
Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
Strong organisational and time‑management skills
Collaborative team player with customer service orientation
Adaptability in a fast‑paced, changing environment
Seniority level Mid‑Senior level
Employment type Full‑time
Job function Purchasing and Supply Chain
Industries Automation Machinery Manufacturing
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