Purchasing Agent / Buyer - Not For Resale

Fred's Pharmacy is America’s favorite hometown discount store. Our vision is to “Put a Smile on Every Customer’s Face.” To achieve this goal, we’re always searching for the right people to become team members.

The Purchasing Agent-Buyer is responsible for the procurement of commodities through the development and implementation of commodity strategy plans and the management of vendor relationships. Responsibilities also include analyzing changes in materials and supplies to find ways to reduce costs and improve quality.

* Negotiate and coordinate the procurement of Not for Resale items for stores, pharmacies, supply chain, and other areas within the organization as needed. * Works closely with vendor sales reps for order placements and arrangement of delivery, maintains rapport with vendors and has an in-depth knowledge base of suppliers. * Ensure accurate ordering of fixtures for all new stores and remodels, including one offs. * Coordinate, troubleshoot, and solve fixture related issues with store development and field personnel. * Create purchase orders using the Fred’s Enterprise system. * Coordinate and manage multiple, simultaneous projects, ensuring all goods arrive timely, accurately, and within budget requirements. * Expedite goods that aren’t on schedule and develop and maintain a purchase order tracking system and fill rate report. * Check invoices for purchase orders, partner with accounting to develop improved reconciliation/payment system process. * Work with the Director of NFR to develop, submit, and regularly review fixture budgets for capital planning. * Maintain inventory of store and pharmacy supplies in each distribution center and off-site consolidation facility. * Develop and execute a disposition plan for out of date supplies/materials. * Research product specifications to assure correct materials and/or services are purchased. * Manage the e-Auction process for Not for Resale Goods and Services along with supervision and guidance from the SVP E-Auctions.

**Knowledge and Skills:** * At least 2 years purchasing experience, preferably within a retail or business to business environment. * General knowledge of retail or business to business environment; e.g., products, customers, markets, business objectives, technologies and suppliers. * Must have administered multiple vendor RFP’s. * Knowledge of Microsoft Office Products (Word, Excel, Outlook) – Intermediate Level. * The ability to work with multiple teams across the organization. * Must be detail oriented, have the proven ability to handle and prioritize multiple projects and must possess the ability to aggressively challenge suppliers * Exceptional negotiation, organization, communication and customer service skills are essential in this position. **Education:** * Bachelor's degree in Business preferred or related field, or equivalent practical experience resulting in a thorough understanding and application of purchasing principles, laws, contracts, negotiation and business systems.