Purchasing Manager

Typical Salary

£30,000 To £60,000

Typical Hours

38 to 40 a week

evenings occasionally

How To Become a Purchasing Manager

You can get into this job through:

a university course
an apprenticeship
working towards this role
applying directly

College / University

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

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

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

Apprenticeship

The following apprenticeships may be relevant

Level 3 Procurement and Supply Assistant
Level 4 Commercial Procurement and Supply (formerly Public Sector Commercial Professional)

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

Routes into this Career

You could start by working as an administrator or assistant in a company's purchasing department. You could work your way up as you get more experience.

You could also take professional qualifications through an organisation like the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply.

You can apply directly for jobs if you have several years' experience in purchasing. If you have a degree you can join a company's graduate management training scheme.

Other Routes

Other Routes are not listed for this job.

Skills And Knowledge

You'll need:

business management skills
customer service skills
patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
the ability to use your initiative
to be flexible and open to change
analytical thinking skills
maths knowledge
persuading and negotiating skills
to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Day To Day Tasks

You could:

decide what goods, services and equipment are needed
monitor and forecast stock levels
research and find new products and suppliers
assess tenders from potential suppliers
negotiate prices and agree contracts
keep up to date with market trends

Working Environment

You could work in an office.

Career Path & Progression

You can improve your career prospects with a qualification from the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply.

Volunteering Opportunities

Volunteering Opportunities are not listed for this job.

Tips & Information

Professional and industry bodies

You could join the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply for professional development training and industry contacts, which could help with your career.

Further information

You can find more advice about becoming a purchasing manager from the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply.

Restrictions & Requirements

Restrictions & Requirements are not listed for this job.