Associate Supply Chain Planner

Zones is a leading global IT solutions provider with over 35 years of experience delivering innovative, end-to-end services across Digital Workplace, Cloud & Data Center, Networking, Security, and Managed/Professional/Staffing services. Operating in more than 120 countries, Zones leverages strong partnerships with industry leaders such as Microsoft, Apple, Cisco, Lenovo, and Adobe to build digital infrastructures that transform business operations. As a Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), Zones is committed to excellence and delivering value through its unmatched supply chain capabilities.

The Associate Supply Chain Planner will play a critical role in managing spend and inventory for assigned categories and brands. This position requires developing and executing comprehensive spend management programs to maximize value while optimizing inventory levels and minimizing risks related to aged or obsolete products. The planner will provide expert guidance on purchasing options, pricing negotiations, inventory management, and supplier relations to internal stakeholders. This role demands independent decision-making and intellectual rigor to meet business objectives effectively.

Key Responsibilities:
- Negotiate with suppliers and vendors to secure the best overall terms, including price, availability, payment terms, shipping, return privileges, and timely delivery.
- Manage inventory to ensure product availability while minimizing risks associated with aging and obsolete stock.
- Provide thought leadership and support to sales and customer-facing teams regarding purchasing and inventory strategies.
- Oversee purchase order execution based on demand, cycle time, location, availability, and pricing considerations.
- Collaborate with distributors and manufacturers to set and achieve category goals and forecast inventory needs by warehouse location.
- Manage end-to-end spend for the assigned book of business, ensuring cost efficiency and compliance.
- Identify and implement cost-saving initiatives, including total cost of ownership (TCO) improvements.
- Develop and maintain alternate sourcing strategies for constrained or allocated products.
- Foster strong inter-departmental relationships to support goal achievement.
- Communicate professionally with manufacturers, suppliers, and external partners to maintain productive relationships.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of category and manufacturer terminology and technology.
- Supervise and guide team members, which may include associate buyers and pricing specialists, both locally and internationally.

Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in any discipline is mandatory.
- 1-2 years of experience working in an offshore or outsourced model within a combined sales, operations, or supply chain function; experience in the reseller hardware/software industry is preferred.
- Basic understanding of information technology products and terminology is advantageous.

Preferred Qualifications and Benefits:
Zones values diversity and inclusion, offering a supportive workplace where every employee is respected. The company provides a comprehensive benefits package including life insurance, optional health insurance, EOBI, and a voluntary pension scheme aligned with company policy. Additional perks include complimentary meals and access to an on-site gym. Zones is an equal opportunity employer committed to maintaining a discrimination-free environment based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, genetic information, or pregnancy.

Shift timings for this role are from 9:00 PM to 6:00 AM (Pakistan Standard Time). Zones may utilize artificial intelligence tools to assist in the recruitment process; however, final hiring decisions are made by human recruiters to ensure fairness and accuracy.

If you are passionate about driving innovation in IT supply chain management and want to grow your career in a dynamic, collaborative environment, Zones offers the opportunity to be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to excellence.