Procurement managers sometimes begin as administrators within the purchasing department and work their way up to management level. The job holder is in charge of the purchasing of equipment, services and goods, and plays a crucial role in reducing a company’s financial outlay.
A wide variety of items may need to be purchased, including food, office supplies and raw material, and it is the procurement manager’s duty to ensure that the best quality goods are purchased at the most competitive price
Day-to-day duties may include monitoring stock levels, carrying out needs assessment tasks, researching products and suppliers, reviewing tenders and processing payments. Both full-time and part-time opportunities are available and it may sometimes be necessary to work overtime during busy periods. The work is mainly office-based but will occasionally require travelling to meet suppliers.
Employers may ask for a degree or BTEC HNC/HND in logistics, supply chain management or business studies, as well as membership of the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply (CIPS). Typical salaries are from £27,000 to £40,000.

• Negotiating
• Being amicable
• Being self motivated, proactive and dynamic
• Presentation and communication in different settings
• Being analytical
• Being professional, organised and diligent
• Risk management
• Flexibility
• Leadership

Procurement Managers may have qualifications in a number of areas. These include Business Administration, Management, Sales or Finance. Other acceptable certifications include a MCIPS or CIPS. Bachelors and Masters Degrees are always accepted.