Description

Purchasing managers and directors (not retail) plan, organise, direct and co-ordinate the purchasing functions of industrial, commercial, government organisations and public agencies to ensure cost-effectiveness.

Tasks

• Determines what goods, services and equipment need to be sourced devises purchasing policies, decides on whether orders should be put out to tender and evaluates suppliers’ bids negotiates prices and contracts with suppliers and draws up contract documents arranges for quality checks of incoming goods and ensures suppliers deliver on time interviews suppliers’ representatives and visits trade fair researches and identifies new products and suppliers stays abreast of and ensures adherence to relevant legislation regarding tendering and procurement procedures

Educational Requirements

Although not restricted to a particular qualification, entry is most common with a degree or equivalent qualification but is also possible with A levels/H grades, a BTEC/SQA award, S/NVQs at level 3 or above, or an apprenticeship. Off and on-the-job training is provided, and professional qualifications are available. Chartered status may also be achieved.