Buyer

Summary:

The Buyer performs intermediate-level procurement activities... This role serves as a 'connective tissue' between internal departments. We are looking for a sports-minded professional with a strong analytical background to help us navigate the fast-paced apparel and athletics industry. This individual applies established purchasing techniques and a strong understanding of the logistical supply chain to manage vendor relationships and support production needs. Working under a moderate level of guidance, the Specialist identifies and vets suppliers, assists in contract negotiations, and solves straightforward operational problems by analyzing solutions through standard procedures. This role serves as a "connective tissue" between internal departments—such as Sales, Finance, and Production—to ensure procurement strategies align with broader business goals. Please note, the role is an exsiting vacacy. We do not use AI tools to assist in screening applications.
Responsibilities

• Operational Execution: Manage the full lifecycle of Purchase Orders (POs), including creation, tracking shipments, and proactively resolving logistics bottlenecks. This role requires a high volume of data entry, specifically focused on entering POs and accurately completing complex supplier templates.

• Inventory Control: Monitor stock levels to prevent shortages or excess waste (dead stock). Anticipate future needs rather than reacting to current demands to maintain lean inventory levels.

• Financial Oversight: Manage departmental budgets, audit invoices to ensure correct charges, and ensure a high ROI on all company spend.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with Sales, Finance, and Production departments to ensure procurement activities support the entire business ecosystem and meet internal customer needs.

• Risk & Compliance: Ensure all sourcing is conducted ethically. Audit supplier labor practices and environmental impact to maintain corporate integrity and long-term sustainability.

• Problem Solving: Solve straightforward procurement and supply chain problems; analyze possible solutions using standard operating procedures and professional experience.

• Communication: Provide excellent oral and written communication to both internal stakeholders and external vendors, serving as a primary point of contact for procurement inquiries.

• Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or a related field is highly desired.

• Experience: 4 – 5 years of prior experience in buying, purchasing, or a related procurement role. Prior experience within the sports or apparel industry is highly preferred."

• Technical Knowledge: Well-versed in purchasing techniques, logistical supply chain management, and vendor selection processes.

• Skills: * Strong purchasing skills backed by solid business acumen.

• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data trends and supplier performance.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

• Strong customer service skills with the ability to maintain healthy vendor relationships.

• Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems and standard office software.

Preferred: 

• Analytical & Curious: Driven by data and a desire to find the most efficient solutions through market research.

• Persuasive & Diplomatic: Able to push for better deals and favorable terms while maintaining professional and positive vendor partnerships.

• Highly Organized: Capable of juggling multiple timelines, POs, and technical logistics details without error.

• Predictive & Proactive: Anticipates material requirements and inventory shifts to mitigate risks before they impact production.

• Detail-Oriented: Maintains a "hawk-eye" on the bottom line, catching small discrepancies in invoices and contracts.

• Collaborative Mindset: Prioritizes "team wins" over individual metrics; shares knowledge freely and supports fellow procurement members.

• Principled & Ethical: Deeply committed to ethical sourcing and corporate

• Sports Enthusiast: Knowledge of major sports leagues (NHL/NBA/NFL/MLS/MLB) would be an asset. 

The salary range for this position is $50,000-$60,000.

The hiring base salary range above represents what Avery Dennison reasonably expects to pay for this position as of the date of this posting. Actual salaries will vary within the range, and in some circumstances may be above or below the range, based on various factors including but not limited to a candidate’s relevant skills, experience, education and training, and location, as well as the job scope and complexity, responsibilities, and regular and/or necessary travel required for the position, which may change depending on the candidate pool. Avery Dennison reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.