Plan and coordinate the work of buyers and purchasing agents

Hire and train new staff

Evaluate suppliers on the basis of the price, quality, and speed of delivery of their products and services

Interview vendors and visit suppliers' plants and distribution centers to examine and learn about products, services, and prices

Attend meetings, trade shows, and conferences to learn about new industry trends and make contacts with suppliers

Analyze price proposals, financial reports, and other information to determine reasonable prices

Negotiate contracts on behalf of their organization

Work out agreements with suppliers, such as when products will be delivered

Meet with staff and vendors to discuss defective or unacceptable goods or services and determine corrective action

Evaluate and monitor contracts to be sure that vendors and suppliers comply with the terms and conditions of the contract and to determine the need for changes

Maintain and review records of items bought, costs, deliveries, product performance, and inventories