Senior Buyer (Purchasing Manager)

Updated: 5 days ago
Location: Boise, IDAHO
Deadline: 26 Apr 2024

About Us:
Boise State University is located along the banks of the Boise River and a short stroll from the state capitol. We are committed to an innovative, transformative, and equitable educational environment that supports student success, and advances Idaho and the world.
 
Boise State is building an inclusive community of faculty and staff whose unique skills, cultural contributions, work history, and perspectives create a rich and rewarding academic experience for our students. Applications from individuals of all backgrounds and identities are welcomed.
 
Learn more about Boise State and living in Idaho’s Treasure Valley at https://www.boisestate.edu/ about/
Job Summary/Basic Function:

The Senior Buyer (Purchasing Manager) oversees all buying functions of the Bronco Shops and acts as the buyer for all apparel and novelty items, especially licensed merchandise. This position supervises 2 other professional staff, falling under two categories (Technology, General Merchandise), and ensures that they are meeting or exceeding their job duties and expectations. This position supports divisional goals of Student Success and a Thriving Student and Employee Community by developing and implementing targeted buying programs. The Senior Buyer will share Director's responsibilities in the absence of the Director.

Department Overview:

The Bronco Shop Team fosters academic success by providing accessible and affordable academic infrastructure and relevant resources to the University community. Our student employment model fosters employee community and engagement while offering career readiness skills. As the World Headquarters for Boise State apparel and gifts, we wear our institutional pride literally on our sleeves.

Essential Functions:

60% of the Time the Senior Buyer (Purchasing Manager) will:

  • Develops a purchasing strategy.
  • Works directly with buyers and unit managers to develop buying plans with concise goals and objectives, execute plans, and report results. Evaluates the effectiveness of buying initiatives.
  • Investigate sources of supply; interview and correspond with vendors or their agents. Research and assist in the development of pricing for University department planning purposes.
  • Responsible for the preparation of an annual budget for purchasing products and services for the campus community.
  • Maintains records of goods ordered and received. Reviews and processes purchase orders.
  • Builds and maintains relationships with vendors. Evaluates vendors based on quality, timeliness, and price. Selects prospective vendors and negotiates contracts.
  • Researches and evaluates vendors to compare pricing and services. Negotiates prices and contracts with suppliers.
  • Coordinates with fellow managers to monitor inventory and determine supply needs. Schedules deliveries and ensures timely fulfillment of orders.
  • Responsible for the selection of vendors and products for resale; negotiation of quantity, pricing, delivery terms; Determination of delivery time, sell-through, markdowns and promotions.
  • Stays current with purchasing technology trends and oversees purchase and implementation, as necessary.

40% of the Time the Senior Buyer (Purchasing Manager) will:

  • Survey and research product information and market trends with responsibility for commodity purchases involving large and/or difficult expenditures of a technical and/or complex nature.
  • Monitor and react to issues with PrismRBS inventory management and accounting.
  • Plan for and implement annual inventory counts and regular cycle counts.
  • Perform other duties as assigned. 
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:
  • Implements and supports effective change to enhance organizational performance by continuously identifying and acting on opportunities to create high-quality, cost-effective processes.
  • Self-motivated and able to work independently as well as part of a team in a fast-paced environment with changing priorities and show constant entrepreneurial initiative
  • Familiarity with sourcing and vendor management, interest in market dynamics along with business sense
  • Develop and maintain relationships outside of the store including, but not limited to Athletics,
  • Trademark and Licensing, and media.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work: suppliers, customers, fellow employees, and the public.
  • Ability to adapt rapidly to changing market conditions and/or customer needs.
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s Degree or Equivalent plus:
  • 7 Years Experience, including
  • 3 Years Managerial Experience and
  • 3 Years Buying Experience

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Retail Management, or a related field (preferred).
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in retail buying and purchasing, preferably in a collegiate or similar environment.
  • Proven track record of success in managing budgets and achieving purchasing goals.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
  • Passion for Boise State University and a strong understanding of the collegiate retail market.
Salary and Benefits:

Starting at $62,878.40, commensurate with experience. Boise State University is committed to offering a benefits package that provides health and financial protection plans as well as resources to promote health and well-being. Our program provides flexibility so you can choose the benefits that are right for you and your family. Learn more about our benefit options at https://www.boisestate.edu/hrs/benefits/ .

Required Application Materials:
  • Statement of Interest/Cover Letter
  • Resume

 

 



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