Procurement Specialist

Kaplan Early Learning Company is seeking to hire a Procurement Specialist.

For more than 50 years, Kaplan Early Learning Company has been a champion for play. From our research-based curricula to enriching classroom environments and innovative technology solutions, Kaplan's products and services inspire a lifelong love of learning in children and educators. We are architects of learning good and defenders of the imagination. We live for inseparable bonds and open minds. We encourage the eager and inspire the inspirers. We transform lives through play.

Don't come to work; come to play! Family-oriented and mission-driven, Kaplan is proud that our work champions play every day, and we are looking for team members who take learning and play as seriously as we do. Accountability, equity, advocacy, and integrity are the heart of what we do at Kaplan, and together we can improve the outcomes of all children. To learn more about our culture and to join our team, visit us at https://www.kaplanco.com/about/

About the Position:

Procurement Specialists are key members of our Company's supply chain management team. This position is responsible for the procurement of high-volume products and maintaining inventory levels across all product categories. This position is responsible for analyzing sales history, forecast, and PO management, including, but not limited to purchase quantity, purchase order creation, negotiations and problem-solving with approximately 100+ vendors, including some import vendors.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Independent execution of product purchases with focus on high volume while ensuring Kaplan achieves pricing efficiencies, quality standards and effective shipment methods.

• Set up and monitor inventory replenishment requirements and prepare/analyze inventory reports to determine replenishment needs and ensure purchasing plans are meeting required forecast.

• Review forecast and prior/current usage to determine purchase quantity

• Prepare and process purchase orders for various product categories

• Minimize backorders and achieve fill-rate expectations

• Build and maintain positive relationships with vendors

• Proactively resolve procurement issues (i.e. shortages, quality, etc.) with vendors and internal departments as required.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:

• BS degree preferred or equivalent training/experience

• Minimum of 2 to 5 years purchasing/planning experience

• Strong understanding of procurement and negotiation techniques

• Extensive computer experience working with MS Office; strong Excel skills (VLOOKUPs, pivot tables, complex formulas)

• Strong analytical skills

• Ability to prioritize workload as conflicts arise

• Ability to pay attention to details with strong organizational skills

• Good interpersonal skills and ability to work independently and in a team environment.

• Must be a self-starter, motivated, reliable and ability to work with minimal supervision

• Knowledge of Kaplan products a plus

Benefits Include:

• Paid Time Off

• Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance

• Voya Insurance

• Pet Insurance

• Verizon & AT&T Discount

• Educational Tuition Assistance

• Paid maternity/paternity leave supplemental program

• Child Care Discounts

• YMCA Discount

• Employee Referral Bonus

• LifeMart Discounts Shopping Website

• Kaplan Store Discounts

• Matching 401(k) Plan

This is an Onsite in Person position, Remote Option Not Available

Kaplan Early Learning Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We embrace differences, welcome diversity and value a culture of respect

You can request reasonable accommodations by contacting Human Resources at 336-712-3206 or via email at HumanResources@Kaplanco.com.