MERCHANT PURCHASER (WHOLESALE OR RETAIL TRADE)

We are a Singapore-based company involved in the manufacturing and trading of customised PP containers and bento boxes, paper cups, PP cups, tissues, and disposable cutlery. We are looking for a Merchant Purchaser to manage our sourcing, purchasing, supply chain, and export sales activities. The person will work with suppliers in China, Vietnam, India, and Malaysia and help develop customers in the USA, UK, Europe, and other international markets.

Supplier Sourcing & Purchasing

• Find and evaluate reliable manufacturers and suppliers in China, Vietnam, India, and Malaysia.
• Compare suppliers based on price, quality, production capacity, MOQ, payment terms, and delivery time.
• Negotiate prices and commercial terms with suppliers to achieve cost optimization.
• Request and evaluate product samples before placing orders.
• Conduct or coordinate supplier inspections and quality checks.
• Ensure products meet relevant requirements such as FDA, BPI, FSC, and other export standards where applicable.
• Manage purchase orders, import documents, shipping arrangements, and delivery schedules.
• Build and maintain strong long-term relationships with reliable suppliers.

Export Sales & Business Development

• Source and develop new B2B customers, distributors, wholesalers, and food-service companies in the USA, UK, Europe, and other international markets.
• Contact potential customers, introduce our products, and generate new business opportunities.
• Handle customer enquiries, prepare quotations, send product information, and follow up to close sales.
• Maintain good relationships with existing customers and drive repeat business.
• Research market prices, competitors, and customer requirements to support export pricing strategy.
• Generate leads through B2B platforms such as Alibaba, Faire, Amazon Business, and other channels.
• Attend international trade fairs and meet overseas customers and suppliers when required.

Operations & Supply Chain

• Monitor stock levels and plan purchasing based on customer demand and sales forecast.
• Coordinate with suppliers, freight forwarders, warehouses, and logistics companies to ensure timely deliveries.
• Follow up on production, shipment schedules, and order status.
• Prepare regular sales, purchasing, supplier, and market reports for management.
• Ensure that all import and export activities comply with Singapore regulations and international trade requirements.
• Support and guide junior purchasing or sales staff when required.

Requirements:

• Diploma or Degree in Business Management, Supply Chain, International Trade, or a related field. Master's degree is an added advantage.
• 2-3 years of relevant experience in purchasing, sourcing, wholesale, import/export, supply chain, or packaging industry.
• Experience dealing with suppliers in China, India, Vietnam, or Malaysia is an advantage.
• Experience handling customers in USA, UK, Europe, or other international markets is an advantage.
• Strong negotiation, communication, and supplier management skills.
• Basic knowledge of international shipping, Incoterms, import/export procedures, and shipping documentation.
• Good understanding of pricing, costing, and commercial terms.
• Able to work independently, manage multiple orders, and meet deadlines.
• Willing to travel overseas for supplier visits, customer meetings, and trade fairs.

Key Responsibilities

• Research and evaluate market trends, customer demand, and sales data to determine purchasing needs
• Source products from domestic and international suppliers
• Negotiate prices, terms, delivery schedules, and contracts with vendors
• Place purchase orders and monitor order fulfillment to ensure timely delivery
• Maintain optimal inventory levels to avoid overstocking or shortages
• Evaluate product quality and supplier performance
• Collaborate with sales, marketing, and inventory teams to align purchasing strategies
• Track pricing, margins, and profitability of merchandise
• Ensure compliance with company policies and applicable regulations
• Maintain accurate purchasing records and reports