Purchasing Agent

The Purchasing Agent (Agent) reports to the Business Services Manager and supports the mission of UNC Asheville (University) through timely and cost-effective procurement of supplies, equipment, and services, in accordance with policies of the University, the UNC System Office, and the State of North Carolina. The UNC Asheville AVC Finance/Controller's office seeks to provide a high level of support to the University and its stakeholders in a competent, approachable, reliable, empathetic, and responsive manner. The Purchasing Agent is responsible for representing these pillars in both attitude and action.

University procurement involves time-sensitive work using an automated purchasing system and requires daily interaction with people both on and off campus. Work of the Purchasing Agent involves performance and execution of all procedural aspects of purchasing activities, including determination of the most appropriate and compliant purchasing methods. This position requires a working knowledge of purchasing best practices, state and federal procurement rules and regulations, contract terms and conditions, competitive bid procedures, and a basic understanding of generally accepted accounting principles and methods related to purchasing activities. The Agent must be able to accurately interpret, apply, document, and explain University and state rules and policies related to purchasing and provide prompt, excellent customer service to various campus constituents, while balancing multiple priorities and meeting strict deadlines.

The Purchasing Agent is the administrator of the University's e-procurement system and monitors transaction compliance with policies and procedures. In addition, the Purchasing Agent acts as University liaison with campus constituents, vendors, UNC System Office Purchasing and Strategic Sourcing, and the Division of Purchase and Contract of the NC Department of Administration on large purchases of goods and services. The Purchasing Agent also assists with other Purchasing operational duties such as procurement card transaction reviews, data analysis, leases administration and special projects.