Purchaser – Procurement Specialist

About the role

The Purchaser is responsible for managing the university’s procurement activities, ensuring the acquisition of goods and services in a cost‑effective and compliant manner. This role involves handling a wide range of categories, maintaining accurate records, and supporting internal stakeholders throughout the purchasing process.

Key responsibilities

• Assist with procurements using appropriate, cost‑effective methods while adhering to laws, policies and university guidelines.
• Receive, track and distribute vendor responses, evaluate bids, and prepare procurement documents.
• Process requisitions in an automated environment, review for completeness and compliance, and issue purchase orders and contracts.
• Research and contact vendors, negotiate specifications, prices and delivery terms, and maintain up‑to‑date vendor lists.
• Maintain all required documentation, including purchase orders, contracts, and procurement reports, using systems such as Sage or SAP.
• Provide guidance to requesters, answer inquiries about requisition status, and resolve purchasing‑related issues.

Required profile

• Minimum three‑year degree (Bac + 3) in business administration, purchasing, economics or related field.
• At least 3 years of experience in purchasing or procurement, preferably in an academic or institutional setting.
• Knowledge of university procurement principles, stock management, and basic safety regulations for hazardous materials.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving and communication abilities in both French and English.

Required skills

• Proficiency with automated procurement systems, specifically Sage and SAP.
• Computer literacy and ability to use purchasing software for requisition processing and reporting.