Purchase Specialist

Job Tasks & Responsibilities

• Responsible for production process and output i.e., their match to client requirements; creation and monitoring of production schedule; quality and cost control; timely delivery.
• Source and select external suppliers of a diverse range of services to include printing and color separation, digital printing, and other new production techniques. Negotiate with suppliers for favorable terms of business.
• Keep abreast of trends (printing and other) and share knowledge about trends and new techniques with Creative and Client Service teams. Attending trade shows and exhibits.
• Communicate regularly with Creative and Client Service teams to know client base and understand client requirements regarding product needs and specifications, expectations (quality, price, etc.) and deadlines.
• Collaborate with Client Service teams to resolve issues such discrepancies or delays.
• Create product specifications which are aligned with the design strategy and match clients’ needs, standards, and budget constraints. Closely coordinate with the Creative and Client Service teams of any possible production issues and offer solutions and alternatives.
• Review and approve all print layouts/mock-ups in consultation with Client Service and Creative teams before obtaining production estimates from suppliers.
• Negotiate and liaise with suppliers as necessary to ensure that items will be produced efficiently: the optimum quantity at the right cost, of the right quality, and within deadlines.
• Conduct quality checks throughout the process and approve, revise, or reject as necessary. Conduct final review upon completion and approval before delivery.
• Upon completion, assign a staff member to distribute samples of the item(s) to Creative and Client Service teams, and place remaining samples in the agency archives.
• Participate in or initiate, meetings as required.
• Review all proofs - especially for color replication - and obtain final internal approval before sending to vendor together with mock-up sample.
• Establish, enforce, and review the company’s procurement policies and procedures.
• Ensure vendors send all necessary documents – including timelines, invoices, shipment schedules, proofs for review, shipping receipts – check them and resolve any discrepancies.
• Review all contracts and purchases to ensure compliance with Procurement Policy and internal policies.
• Issue and check Purchase Requests (PRs) and Purchase Orders (POs) for all production-related projects, for signed approval by Supervisor.

Qualifications & Experience Required

• Minimum bachelor’s degree in printing, design, advertising, or a related field.
• Minimum 3-5+ years working experience in printing technology or at least a good working knowledge of it including design, materials, products.
• Experienced with design, printing, and a related field.
• Familiar with vendors and suppliers, locally and overseas.
• Able to manage multiple priorities and work fast.
• Strong English communication skills, written and verbal.
• Able to work under pressure and troubleshoot.
• Keep up to date on industry information such as new materials and methods.
• Handle any special projects as assigned by Supervisor