Overall Summary:

The Sr. Purchasing Agent, Outside Services, is responsible for sourcing outsourced components (print, finishing, lettershop, etc.) and other job and non-job-related outside services within established timeframes to minimize total cost of ownership, minimize risk, optimize supplier performance, and deliver business objectives.

Primary Duties/Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with cross-functional leaders to understand and execute category business requirements.
• Lead requesting and evaluating quotes from outside service providers, reviewing estimates, and finalizing project pricing.
• Build and maintain productive, mutually beneficial, and strategic relationships with suppliers, including supplier selection, negotiation, and performance evaluation.
• Research alternative products and/or alternate suppliers as needed or assigned.
• Source business requirements and create purchase orders in Monarch to place orders with suppliers.
• Manage outsourced services and products for quality and timeliness, ensuring quality control, on-time delivery, and material compliance.
• Act as a subject matter expert for non IWCO products for IWCO Sales and Account Management and all internal resources.
• Collaborate with cross-functional leaders to quickly resolve issues and answer questions as they arise.
• Maintain accurate transaction records in ERP systems.
• Serve as a mentor for other team members including training.
• Provide back-up support for other Sr. Purchasing Agents / Purchasing Agents as needed.
• Establish and maintain professional and appropriate relationships with all suppliers and internal teams.
• Perform other duties as applicable or assigned.

Required Skills/Abilities/Competencies:

• Excellent interpersonal, communication, collaboration, and negotiation skills.
• Proven ability to organize and manage multiple priorities and projects while balancing changing client and company needs.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and experience with purchasing utilizing an ERP system.
• Strong understanding of the direct mail workflow, envelope manufacturing, conventional and digital printing, various facets of finishing (including bindery and cards), and lettershop
• Ability to work independently, managing various activities with limited direction, while achieving defined operational and department objectives.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in a related discipline.
• 7+ years of outside services experience in direct mail, lettershop, print, and or fulfillment industry.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to work 8 hours consecutively.
• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.

Salary:

The starting salary range for this position is $80,000-$100,000.

At IWCO, base pay is determined by job-related knowledge, skills, credentials, and experience, along with factors such as role scope and location. Candidates seeking compensation outside of the posted range are encouraged to apply and will be considered based on their individual qualifications and/or may be considered for other positions.

Pay is influenced by a variety of factors specific to the position, including market conditions and, in some cases, education, work experience, and certifications. Beyond competitive pay, IWCO is committed to supporting our team members and their families with comprehensive benefits. These may include health, dental, and vision insurance, life insurance, and other wellness programs. Eligible employees also enjoy 401(k) plans, paid holidays, vacation time, sick leave, and more. At IWCO, we invest in you so you can take care of what matters most.