Gestión de compras y negociación en un entorno multicultural

Abstract

This report describes the professional internship experience carried out in the Purchasing Department of Optimus Steel, a company located in Beaumont, Texas, dedicated to the production of wire, reinforcing bars (straight and coiled), and steel billets. The company is characterized by its corporate values of Integrity, Accountability, Excellence, Passion, and Teamwork, as well as by its recognition within the industry for its achievements in safety, engineering, environmental management, and quality under ISO 9001 certification. Optimus Steel serves various sectors across North America, including construction, automotive, energy, consumer goods, manufacturing, and steel distribution. Its mission is “to reinforce the world to build dreams,” and its vision is “to enrich lives and create opportunities for all stakeholders through the safe and profitable production and trade of steel.” During the internship, activities related to purchasing and inventory management were carried out, such as the creation and modification of materials in SAP, preparation of purchase orders, support in quotation and negotiation processes, coordination of logistics services, updating supplier databases, reviewing invoices with discrepancies, and monitoring compliance with safety standards through ISNetworld. A fundamental aspect of the experience was the constant use of the English language for communication with suppliers and U.S.-based colleagues, which significantly strengthened technical vocabulary, fluency, and intercultural negotiation skills.