3323-Buyers and Purchasing Agents

Tasks include:

• determining or negotiating contract terms and conditions, awarding supplier contracts or recommending contract awards for the purchase of equipment, raw materials products, services and the purchasing of merchandise for resale
• obtaining information about requirements and stock and developing specifications for quantity and quality to be purchased, costs, delivery dates and other contract conditions
• purchasing general and specialised equipment, materials or business services for use or for further processing by their establishment
• inviting tenders, consulting with suppliers and reviewing quotations
• purchasing merchandise for resale by retail or wholesale establishments
• studying market reports, trade periodicals and sales promotion materials and visiting trade shows, showrooms, factories and product design events
• selecting the merchandise or products that best fit the establishment's requirements
• interviewing suppliers and negotiating prices, discounts, credit terms and transportation arrangements
• overseeing distribution of merchandise to outlets and maintaining adequate stock levels
• establishing delivery schedules, monitoring progress and contacting clients and suppliers to resolve problems