Job Description

SGS is the world leader in inspection, verification, testing, training, and certification, recognized for its quality and integrity, with more than 95,000 employees and 2,400 offices and laboratories worldwide.

Within its structure, GBS Americas operates as the regional shared services center, responsible for optimizing and standardizing key processes such as finance, human resources, procurement, and technology, providing strategic support while promoting efficiency and digital transformation across the region.

The Purchasing Agent is responsible for acquiring location requirements and verifying, preparing, and submitting purchase orders; communicating with suppliers; validating the receipt of goods/services; and resolving payment-related issues.

Specific Responsibilities

• Complies at all times with the SGS Code of Integrity and Professional Conduct.
• Verifies material/service requirements by location and creates requests using the best pricing and suppliers, clarifying unclear items and recommending alternatives.
• Sources available products to find the best combination of quality, price, and delivery.
• Follows up on purchase orders by verifying products/services, expected delivery times, and pricing; obtains supplier recommendations for substitute items and cross-checks with the requesting department.
• Schedules optimal delivery and monitors and expedites orders when necessary.
• Verifies receipt of items by comparing received goods against purchase orders; resolves shipment discrepancies and issues with suppliers and/or carriers.
• Verifies invoices and payments with suppliers and cross-functional teams.
• Creates purchase orders based on supplier invoices.
• Supports purchasing and organizational objectives by completing assigned tasks and achieving desired results as needed.
• Collects, analyzes, and summarizes data and trends.
• Maintains detailed and accurate information accessible in SharePoint for management review.
• Maintains and updates job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities.
• Participates in special projects, additional tasks, professional training, education, or development activities as required.
• Builds trust by responding promptly to all inquiries, whether by phone or email.
• Promotes a positive attitude and a safe working environment.
• Understands and complies with SGS procedures, standards, and policies at all times.
• Adopts and supports specific operational improvement activities communicated by the GBS Team Lead, Supervisor, or Manager. These initiatives focus on quality improvement, efficiency, accreditation, communication, and technical enhancement.
• Ensures the GBS work area is always maintained clean and presentable.

Qualifications

• A university degree or equivalent is required.
• A B2+ level of English is required, with strong verbal and written communication skills to work effectively and collaborate internally.
• 3 to 5 years of purchasing experience is required.
• 2+ years of Accounts Payable experience is preferred; knowledge of Oracle AP system functions and processes is a plus.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office is required.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong leadership skills, self-initiative, resourcefulness, excellent problem-solving abilities, and time management skills with the ability to meet deadlines.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Active listening skills and excellent customer service abilities.
• Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to employees within the organization.
• Substantial and repetitive wrist, hand, and/or finger movements may be required.
• Must possess strong analytical and mathematical skills with great attention to detail.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet daily deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills and a professional attitude when interacting with suppliers and stakeholders.
• Effective relationship-building skills and the ability to coordinate with multiple locations, management teams, and suppliers as needed.
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to make quick and thoughtful decisions on behalf of the company.
• Ability to fulfill commitments made to oneself and others, while taking ownership of decisions, actions, and outcomes.
• Ability to write and speak effectively, actively listen to others, ask questions to confirm understanding, and communicate opinions with tact and consideration.
• Demonstrates responsiveness, adaptability, and flexibility in changing environments, responsibilities, tasks, and interactions with people.

Additional Information

Salary: To be agreed

Schedule: Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Work Modality: Hybrid work model

Contract Type: Indefinite-term contract