Purchasing Agent

Location: Nashville, TN (Headquarters) Job Type: Full-Time, In-Person Pay Range: $45,000 – $55,000 per year Position Summary Athens Paper is seeking a detail-oriented and driven Purchasing Agent to join our headquarters team in Nashville, TN. This position supports a multi-location wholesale distribution operation and plays a critical role in maintaining appropriate inventory levels, managing supplier relationships, and ensuring timely product availability to meet customer needs. The Purchasing Agent collaborates closely with sales, warehouse, and leadership teams to support operational excellence and continuous improvement. Key Responsibilities Maintain optimal inventory levels to support specific customer bases while improving overall company inventory efficiency. Process non-stock purchase requests promptly, ensuring accurate and timely delivery while negotiating lead times as needed. Evaluate suppliers, negotiate pricing, delivery schedules, and payment terms. Coordinate with suppliers to schedule deliveries and resolve shortages, missed shipments, or other supply issues. Provide merchandising insights and product recommendations to the sales team based on supplier communications and market knowledge. Address defective or unacceptable goods or services by working with suppliers and internal teams to determine corrective actions. Maintain, review, and correct purchasing and inventory data to ensure accuracy within systems and reports. Collaborate with the management team on developing and implementing organizational strategies, policies, and process improvements. Support continuous improvement initiatives and assist with additional duties as assigned by leadership. Qualifications College degree or high school diploma with equivalent relevant experience. Minimum of 1 year of purchasing experience (preferred). Minimum of 1 year of experience using Infor ERP software (preferred). Working knowledge of supply chain operations within a warehouse or distribution environment. Strong attention to detail and accuracy. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, with emphasis on Outlook and Excel. Demonstrated ability to streamline processes and implement improvements. High ethical standards and commitment to a diverse and inclusive workplace. Excellent verbal and written communication skills with a collaborative work style. Ability to work independently as a main liaison between suppliers and the company. Key Competencies Customer-focused mindset Business acumen Planning and organizational skills Effective communication Time management and prioritization Process-driven approach Ability to quickly resolve discrepancies Trustworthy, conscientious, and dependable Strong critical thinking skills Benefits Paid vacation and holidays Medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage 401(k) with company matching Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) Voluntary supplemental benefits Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Free telemedicine services Life insurance Parental leave Work Schedule Monday through Friday Day shift, 8-hour schedule Physical Requirements Position operates in both office and warehouse environments. About Athens Paper Founded in 1952, Athens Paper is one of the largest privately owned distributors of paper, packaging, and wide-format products in the United States. Our long-standing success is driven by a passion for customer service and a commitment to excellence. Athens Paper supports employee growth through team collaboration, advancement opportunities, and competitive benefits. Athens Paper is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and a proud supporter of workplace diversity. Pay: $45,000.00 - $55,000.00 per year Benefits: 401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance Education: High school or equivalent (Required) Experience: Purchasing: 1 year (Preferred) Infor ERP software: 1 year (Preferred) Work Location:…

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