Purchasing Supervisor

• My Match

• Crossover
  Career

Are your leadership and negotiating skills sharp? Do you enjoy working hard to get a great deal? If so, then a position as a Purchasing Supervisor is the perfect way to put your bargaining skills to work. You’ll be the leader of the procurement department, in charge of how and where your company’s money is spent on raw materials and services.

A large part of your job will be finding vendors and suppliers. Negotiating will be a big part of your job, as you’ll want to save as much money as possible while still maintaining high standards for the goods and services your company needs. You will also plan, schedule, and ensure supply deliveries work with with project schedules.

Much of your work will be done from your office, where you’ll oversee your employees and offer them advice and oversight. Strong leadership skills are important since you'll be responsible for growing the skills and expertise of those around you.

You’ll read and create reports and manage the procurement budget using software programs. Purchasing Supervisors need previous experience in the field and many are hired from within the company. Most companies will expect some sort of degree in business, finance, or accounting. Programs that offer internships will give you a leg up in the job hunt.

Critical Skills

• Advanced Computer Skills
• Business Fundamentals
• Communication with External Entities
• Create and Modify Budgets
• Leadership
• Negotiation
• Prepare Documents and Reports
• Relationship Building
• Supervisory Practices

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee procurement buyers
• Provide consulting, training, and guidance to procurement buyers
• Research, evaluate, and buy products
• Review purchase order requests
• Negotiate contracts with vendors and suppliers
• Build relationships with business partners
• Ensure quality of goods and services purchased
• Maintain and review purchase and delivery records

Specific job titles and duties vary by employer so check for details.