About this role
About Expo Centric
Expo Centric is an Australian-based events and exhibition company specialising in designing and building custom exhibition stands, displays, and event solutions.
The International Sourcing Buyer / Analyst researches and evaluates overseas suppliers, with an initial focus on Chinese manufacturers , and supports competitive sourcing of repeat materials and products for Expo Centric’s Australian operations. The role prepares supplier and landed-cost comparisons, coordinates samples and freight information, and supports sourcing decisions with documented commercial and quality evidence.
What You'll Do
International Supplier Research
- Research and shortlist suitable manufacturers and overseas suppliers, initially focusing on China.
- Verify supplier credentials, capabilities, minimum order quantities, production lead times and relevant product specifications.
- Obtain comparable quotations and maintain a verified supplier research database.
- Use digital and AI research tools where useful, with independent verification of findings.
Quotations, Samples and Quality
- Coordinate technical specifications with Fabrication, Production Design and Operations.
- Prepare side-by-side comparisons of pricing, quality, quantities, lead times and commercial terms.
- Arrange samples and coordinate internal technical assessment before recommendations.
- Record quality concerns and support resolution with suppliers.
Landed Costs and Freight
- Prepare landed-cost estimates incorporating product cost, freight, insurance, duties, taxes and applicable fees.
- Compare international options with local purchasing on a like-for-like delivered-cost basis.
- Seek freight quotations and evaluate shipping modes, consolidation opportunities and realistic delivery timing.
- Coordinate shipment milestones and documentation with freight forwarders and customs brokers; escalate compliance questions to specialists.
Planning, Records and Improvement
- Support reorder planning using stock, forecast demand and manufacturing/shipping lead times.
- Maintain sourcing files, sample results, supplier quotations and shipment updates.
- Prepare documented sourcing recommendations and realised-savings reports.
- Support standardisation of international sourcing and logistics processes.
What You Bring
Education
- A qualification in procurement, supply chain, logistics , business or a related field is preferred. Relevant practical experience may be considered in place of formal qualifications.
Experience
- Typically 2–5 years with independent delivery experience or with demonstrated ownership of complex work.
Track Record
- Evidence of accurate work, reliable follow-up and sound commercial judgement appropriate to level.
- For Mid-Level and Senior candidates, examples of independently delivered supplier, cost or process improvements.
- For Senior candidates, evidence of complex negotiations or initiatives and the ability to guide others.
Skills & Technical Knowledge
- Supplier research, quotation comparison, Excel cost modelling and manufacturing lead times.
- Understanding of Incoterms, freight methods, landed-cost components and supplier verification.
- Experience with Chinese manufacturers and Australian import requirements is advantageous .
- Comfort using business systems, shared records and AI-assisted research with appropriate verification .
Soft Skills
- Clear written and spoken English; professional supplier and stakeholder communication.
- Organisation, accuracy, initiative and timely escalation of risks.
- Ability to work across Australian and Philippine teams and manage competing deadlines.
