Associate Supply Chain Planner

Company Overview:
When it comes to IT solution providers, there are a lot of choices. But when it comes to providers with innovative and differentiating end-to-end service offerings, there’s only one: Zones – First Choice for IT.TM
Zones is a Global Solution Provider of end-to-end IT solutions with an unmatched supply chain. Positioned to be the IT partner you need, Zones, a Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) in business for over 35 years, specializes in Digital Workplace, Cloud & Data Center, Networking, Security, and Managed/Professional/Staffing services. Operating in more than 120 countries, leveraging a robust portfolio, and utilizing the highest certification levels from key partners, including Microsoft, Apple, Cisco, Lenovo, Adobe, and more, Zones has mastered the science of building digital infrastructures that change the way business does business ensuring whatever they need, they can Consider IT Done. Follow Zones, LLC on Twitter @Zones, and LinkedIn and Facebook.
Position Overview:
The Associate Supply Chain Planner will be responsible for developing and executing a spend management program (cradle to grave) for assigned categories and brands to ensure maximum value is achieved. The Buyer will optimize inventory levels while minimizing the risk of aged/obsolete products. The Buyer will provide expertise to internal customers on purchasing options, pricing negotiations, inventory management, expediting, tracking, follow-up, and supplier management of orders.
What you’ll do as an Associate Supply Chain Planner:
Employees employed in the role of Associate Supply Chain Planner shall be required to apply their independent mind and demonstrate intellectual abilities in their decision-making.
The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
Negotiate with suppliers/vendors to secure the best overall price considering (price, availability, payment terms, shipping, return privileges, timely delivery, etc.)
Manage inventory to ensure product availability while minimizing risk of aging inventory and obsolescence on stocked items
Provide thought leadership to sales/customer organizations on purchasing and inventory management
Manage execution of POs to suppliers based on demand, cycle time, location, availability, and price
Collaborate with distributors and manufacturers to establish and attain the goals and directives of each category, and in forecasting inventory requirements by warehouse location
Provide overall spend management (cradle to grave) for assigned book of business
Identify and execute cost savings (TCO initiatives) for assigned book
Develop, engage and maintain alternate sources for constrained and allocated products
Maintain strong inter-departmental relationships to help facilitate achievement of assigned goals
Communicate professionally and build relationships with manufacturers, suppliers, and other external sources
Maintain proficiency in category/manufacturer terminology and technology
Management of others under the immediate area of responsibility, which may include associate buyers, pricing, and brand pricing/program specialists that may be local or in other physical locations in and out of the country.
What you will bring to the team:
Bachelor's degree in any discipline