Purchasing manager

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• an apprenticeship
• working towards this role
• applying directly

University

There is no set entry route to become a purchasing manager, though it may be useful to study for a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in a subject like:

• business studies
• logistics and procurement
• purchasing and supply
• marketing
• supply chain management

Entry requirements:

• 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree

Entry requirements:

Apprenticeship

You could start as a trainee purchasing manager by doing a:

• Procurement and Supply Assistant Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
• Commercial Procurement and Supply Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
• Senior Procurement and Supply Chain Professional Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship

These can take between 2 and 3 years to complete.

Entry requirements:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

Work

You may be able to join a company as an administrator or assistant in a purchasing department. You could work your way up as you get more experience.

You might also take professional qualifications while working, through an organisation like the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply.

DirectApplication

You can apply directly for jobs if you have several years' experience in buying and purchasing. If you have a degree, you may be able to join a graduate management training scheme.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

Skills:

• business management skills
• customer service skills
• the ability to use your initiative
• to be flexible and open to change
• analytical thinking skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• maths knowledge
• persuading and negotiating skills
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• leadership skills
• thinking and reasoning skills
• knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
• knowledge of English language
• active listening skills
• the ability to motivate and manage staff
• excellent verbal communication skills
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• knowledge of human resources and employment law
• concentration skills

What you'll do:

Purchasing managers buy equipment, goods and services for their company or organisation.

As a purchasing manager, you could:

• identify what goods, services and equipment are needed
• draw up tenders and assess bids from potential suppliers
• present any legal or commercial risks to senior leadership teams
• identify savings, negotiate prices and agree contracts with suppliers
• monitor the performance of contracted suppliers
• manage a purchasing team and make sure rules are followed correctly

Location : You could work in an office.

Salary:

Starter : £28,000
Experienced : £60,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

38 - 42 hours a week

Working Pattern is evenings occasionally

Career Path:

As your career develops, you could work towards becoming a Member of the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (MCIPS) . This is internationally recognised and can lead to chartered status.

With experience, you could apply for senior roles like head of department, specialise in a particular industry or become a purchasing consultant.