Armetra Garrett

Analytical Senior Buyer with 17 years of experience conducting in-depth research and negotiating pricing with vendors to purchase MRO and packaging products. Successful in maintaining business relationships with existing vendors and identifying new business opportunities to engage with potential suppliers. Efficient in carefully reviewing pricing, terms and conditions prior to forming agreements.

• BRYCE CORPORATION, Memphis, TN, 07/2017 - Present, Senior Buyer, Source product for manufacturing plant and corporate office facility utilizing SAP system. Review and process capital requisitions for projects ranging from $100k and upward millions. Evaluate maintenance contracts for renewal and capital purchases while creating opportunities for obtaining savings within daily activities. Work closely with team to help identify process improvements and implement those processes.
• SERVICEMASTER, Memphis, TN, 05/2013 - 05/2016, Sourcing Analyst II, Established process for reporting savings while compiling and analyzing information for professional and business services. Responsible for creating RFI/RFP to evaluate bid procedure for suppliers within different system applications (ie. IASTA & Cvent). Responsible for working within contract data base system to maintain executed contracts. Worked closely with event planners to solicit hotels within Cvent to secure space for corporate and franchise events. Prepared RFP’s for Meetings and Events team.
• CLOSURE SYSTEMS INTERNATIONAL (CSI), Olive Branch, MS, 07/2010 - 03/2013, Location Buyer, Through the utilization of Oracle, purchased indirect materials for manufacturing plant while seeking opportunities for site controlled cost savings. Performed monthly compliance audits and quarterly inspections to comply with safety requirements. Managed aged invoices and open order reports while conducting vendor selection and negotiations.
• SMITH & NEPHEW, Memphis, TN, 11/2007 - 05/2010, Purchasing Agent / Corporate Card Administrator, Responsible for the purchasing of MRO/General materials for all indirect business while creating the opportunity for global cost savings through negotiations and selection procedures. Prepare and distribute monthly analysis of Smith & Nephew deflation efforts. Involved with all aspects of: - contract development - vendor selection - period end reporting - cost savings initiatives - vendor negotiations - credit card management - e-payables management - stock level control - credit card training Utilize intranet database to track and manage progress for project reporting
• FLEXTRONICS, Memphis, TN, 09/2006 - 11/2007, Senior Buyer, Established a successful record of professional accomplishments within a business environment while contributing to the profitability for this packaging and distribution provider. Responsible for the purchasing of raw materials / finished goods and the management of inventories in our warehouses. Utilized corporate system (BAAN) to run reports and queries to aid in the procurement process and the management of inventory Maintained current market sensitivity, analyze resulting information, and utilize knowledge of major trends into planning process.
• INTERNATIONAL PAPER, Memphis, TN, 01/1998 - 09/2005, Customer Support Specialist III / Business Analyst (2003-2005), Established a record of quality customer service, effective problem resolution, and efficient coordination of company IT resources as needed to ensure customer’s expectations / satisfaction. Utilized highly effective communication/interpersonal skills to develop and manage relations with all levels of industry professionals and global clients. Provided outstanding customer service by utilizing resourceful ability to diplomacy when working with customers in all situations and understand the importance of presenting a positive/professional image at all times. Maintained high levels of operational efficiency and productivity through dedication and commitment to excellence.
• INTERNATIONAL PAPER, Memphis, TN, 01/1998 - 09/2005, Account Executive II (1998-2003), Used business administration, analysis, and research to develop clear understanding of customer’s expectations and develop plans and procedures to meet expectations. Researched/evaluated economic conditions that drive commodity and product pricing. Prepared and distributed monthly analysis of IP sales to all sales reps and managers as well as VP’s Improved efficiency and reduced costs by successfully managing purchasing processes and by developing and implementing computer applications to generate reports.