Materials Buyers/Sourcers

"Materials buyers/sourcers are charged with the responsibility of selecting and purchasing specific materials that are used in particular styles.  They work in both domestic and international markets.  The amount of analysis required of the buyer depends on the level of specificity desired and the market conditions and quantities of goods needed.  Buyers are concerned with performance, availability, quality consistency, compatibility, and costs.  The materials buyer must compare supplier's specifications to style specifications to determine the most suitable product to buy.  They monitor markets for best possible price and coordinate delivery dates with forecasted demand.  Materials buyers must also determine whether the materials received meet the specifications.  Laboratory tests may be ordered to confirm acceptability of materials."

(Kunz, (2005) Apparel Manufacturing, Prentice Hall, p. 115)