Purchasing Manager

Zones simplifies information technology by providing end-to-end capabilities and acting as a singular point of contact for hardware solutions and software licensing.

The Purchasing Manager position searches for the highest quality tools to provide our talented workforce, which helps Zones serve its customers with the best solutions available. This position works with a wide repertoire of people, from external vendors to the team of accomplished individuals you will be joining at Zones. We are looking for someone who can interact with this wide assortment of people, and find a way to add value to these relationships. Primarily, you will assist your team through coaching and mentoring opportunities, as well as challenging current models to bring a new perspective to the solutions process. Our company and this team are constantly evolving. Consequently, we are looking for someone who thrives on change and understands our industry to facilitate this transformation, and push for new strategies to augment Zones’ efficiency and effectiveness year after year. Essential tasks for the Purchasing Manager include improving sourcing, order fulfillment, and supplier & inventory management practices.

* Develop and deliver a high performing work team that meets and exceeds departmental goals and objectives. * Provide function expertise and leadership in software and hardware sourcing, supplier management, inventory management and TCO (total cost of ownership) reduction for assigned categories and/or brands. * Provide purchasing leadership to internal stakeholders and suppliers. * Identify and implement process and procedure improvements. * Seek out and hire people who are dedicated to delivering Five-Star service to customers * Engage in career development conversations, which include setting goals and assessing performance * Identify sourcing strategies that maximize the relationship with Zones and our customers * Communicate with suppliers to identify performance trends

* BA in Business, Purchasing, Marketing, Merchandising, Material Management, or a related field * 5+ years required of progressively responsible purchasing experience, including management responsibilities * Proven track record for successful supplier management, managing purchasing operations, sourcing initiatives and cost savings * IT hardware and software purchasing and program knowledge with major OEMs/publishers * Must work with a sense of urgency and excel in a dynamic, fast-paced growth environment * Experience in building or transforming procurement organizations * Proven leadership skills, professional presence, and presentation and/or public speaking skills * Excellent interpersonal skills to partner and build relationships with internal customers and key stakeholders * Strategic thinker - anticipates and develops business opportunities and priorities for future action, while executing on concrete business objectives during the fiscal year * Results orientated, demonstrating organizational agility, removing obstacles to achieve objectives * Must work with a sense of urgency and excel in a dynamic, fast-paced growth environment * Experience in contract negotiation and administration required * A good knowledge of general principles of purchasing law is preferred * Experience in building or transforming procurement organization is highly desirable * Inventory management experience a plus **Certifications** * CPM preferred **Technology Focus & Requirements** * Candidates must have software buying and program knowledge with major publishers like Microsoft, VMWare, Symantec and Adobe * Proficiency with Microsoft Word and Excel are required