Getting a job in procurement – everything you need to know

LOOKING for a way to get buy-in on your career? Then train for a job in purchasing.

Also known as procurement, the job involves buying goods and services and is essential to help firms run smoothly.

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Only around 150,000 people work nationally – so can you guess how much they are paid?

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Seven in ten firms are struggling to find enough procurement staff.

Here’s how to begin a new career in buying with Sun Jobs.

What does a purchasing specialist do? 

Purchasing staff are responsible for the company's supply chain and sourcing goods and services. 

The role can include identifying your business needs, sourcing suppliers, and negotiating prices and contracts.

You will manage supplier performance, and report on payments and cash flow to senior management.

In many cases, purchasing executives may also be tasked with managing risk in the supply chain, so identifying legal, commercial, sustainability and ethical risks in anything you might buy.

How much could I earn working in purchasing?

 This will depend on the level you are working at.

Purchasing administrators typically earn between £19,000 and £27,000, while a purchasing coordinator (which is the first run on the management ladder) can expect to take home between £26,000 to £33,000.

Purchasing supervisors earn upwards of £35,000 while purchasing managers average £42,000, rising to £55,000.

What skills do I need to work in purchasing? 

Purchasing is a responsible role – your decisions directly impact your firm’s profitability.

Key skills you will need include the ability to be a strong negotiator to get the best deals for the company, risk management and analytical expertise as you will be working with data.

Contract management is an essential part of the procurement process and you’ll also be expected to show strong IT and maths skills.

On a personal level, time management and the ability to work under pressure – and to be creative when things go wrong – will help you thrive in your career.

What qualifications do I need to work in purchasing? 

To be considered for a management job, most recruiters expect you to have a degree, BTEC/SQA higher national certificate or diploma (HNC or HND). 

Some employers may also prefer you're a member of the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply (CIPS). 

You can also consider getting a UK certification like the Certified Professional in Supply Chain Management from the Institute for Supply Chain Management. 

For admin roles, it’s vital to have strong Excel and word processing experience.