FF&E Associate Buyer

American Cruise Lines•Guilford, CT

About The Position

The FF&E Associate Buyer is responsible for assisting in all interior hotel purchasing for newbuilds and existing ships within the American Cruise Lines fleet. The Buyer oversees all purchasing functions related to furniture, fixtures, and equipment. The Buyer works with FF&E Purchasing Manager, Product Development, Operations, Designers, and company Warehouses on need assessments and delivery timelines. The Buyer ensures all items purchased are in accordance with contract, budget, design specifications, USCG regulations, guests’ standards, compliance of regulations, safety requirements, and as directed. From concept to delivery, the Buyer will engage in gathering quotes, negotiating pricing, PO creation, delivery deadlines, inventories, installations, and invoice approvals. Other functions related to the position will be required as necessary to reach design goals. This position reports to the Purchasing Manager but will work closely with the Design and Product Development teams. At American Cruise Lines, we are driven by our values— Optimism, Commitment, Patriotism, and Merit. These values shape our culture, our service, and our people, guiding us as we work together to Share America’s Story on the Finest American Ships.

Requirements

Minimum 3 years’ experience in Purchasing for the Hospitality Industry.
Strong organizational skills and excellent verbal and written communication skills (English).
Proficiency in Microsoft Office.

Nice To Haves

Experience in Interior Design and/or Purchasing of Furnishings is preferred.
Experience with overseas product sourcing/shipping

Responsibilities

Establish timelines for procurement of furniture, fixtures, and equipment in line with company build schedule and delivery of ships.
Acts as company liaison with vendors to ensure timelines and design specifications are followed.
Procurement of FF&E, artwork, tile, carpet and accessories.
Facilitates effective communication between contractors, crew, and management.
Generates and distribute reports to provide status updates throughout the season and/or during the refurbishment period.
Reviews drawings and specifications presented by architects and designers, considering functionality, operational needs, and budget.
Prepares bid documents and design and technical specifications.
Advises and participates in contract negotiations and selection of vendors, finding alternatives when necessary.
Ensures selected specifications comply with the safety and environmental regulations established by the company and regulatory agencies.
Understands construction principles and reading plans and drawings.
Maintains contact with contractors and vendors to resolve issues.
Coordinates with contractors, architects, designers, and managers to assure the project is completed to specifications and on time.
Monitors costs to assure budget is maintained.
Performs quality checks and inspections of mock-up goods.
Ensures construction trades follow plans and build as designed.
Evaluates and provides feedback regarding buying process improvements and enhancements for future builds.
Performs other duties as required.