• Prepared purchase orders and tracked their progress from order placement to receipt of goods and services• Reconciled variances between purchase order and invoice• Developed and maintained professional relationships with vendors and suppliers• Monitored stock levels and identified purchasing needs in a timely manner• Provided support in resolving vendor disputes regarding quality issues or discrepancies between products received versus those ordered• Used purchasing software AS400 & SLIM to track orders, monitor inventory levels, and generate reports on purchases• Conferred with receiving staff, DC customer service team vendors to discuss defective or unacceptable goods or services and determine corrective action• Hired, train and supervised purchasing clerks, buyers, and expediters• Evaluated existing processes for procurement activities, identified opportunities for improvement and implemented changes accordingly• Identified alternative sources of supply when necessary due to shortages or delayed delivery times• Kept inventory levels within safety stock and target quantity levels• Participated in trade shows and conferences in order to stay abreast of latest developments in the industry• Authorized payment of invoices and return of merchandise