Import Buyer

Description

The Import Buyer is responsible for sourcing, purchasing, and managing inventory of imported goods to meet company needs while optimizing cost, quality, and delivery timelines. This role ensures compliance with international trade regulations, coordinates with overseas vendors, manages import logistics, and works closely with internal teams to maintain optimal stock levels and support business objectives

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Purchasing & Inventory Management:

o Place purchase orders for imported products in alignment with demand forecasts and budget guidelines.

o Monitor open orders to ensure on-time shipment and proactively resolve potential delays to achieve cost savings and quality standards.

o Collaborate with inventory and planning teams to maintain optimal stock levels and prevent shortages or overstock.

• Import & Compliance Coordination:

o Ensure all imports comply with U.S. Customs, HTS classifications, and applicable regulations (CBP, USDA, FDA, etc.).

o Coordinate with import manage to maintain accurate import documentation, including commercial invoices, packing lists, and bills of lading.

o Coordinate with freight forwarders, brokers, and carriers to track shipments and manage transportation logistics.

• Cost & Margin Management:

o Analyze landed costs, including freight, duties, and tariffs, to maintain target margins.

o Partner with the finance team to validate vendor invoices and ensure accurate cost allocation.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration:

o Work with product development, merchandising, and sales to align purchasing with seasonal and promotional needs.

o Support supply chain initiatives to improve efficiency, reduce lead times, and optimize purchasing processes.

o Work with Merchandising to identify and develop reliable domestic hardgoods suppliers and maintain strong vendor relationships.

o Negotiate pricing (where necessary), payment terms, and delivery schedules to achieve cost savings and quality standards.

o Evaluate supplier performance and coordinate corrective actions when necessary.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, International Business, or related field preferred.

• 3–5 years of experience in purchasing, supply chain, or import logistics (horticulture, consumer goods, or retail industry experience is a plus).

• Strong knowledge of import regulations, HTS codes, Incoterms, and customs documentation.

• Experience with ERP systems (D365 preferred) and proficiency in Excel and reporting tools.

• Strong negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

• Excellent communication and organizational abilities with attention to detail.

Requirements

• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job, with or without reasonable accommodation. 
• The position is regularly required to sit at a desk/computer.

Gardens Alive is an Equal Opportunity Employer