Procurement area is where public bodies and companies buy services and goods. A procurement manager is responsible for these purchases. He can buy big quantities of goods in the name of a company to elaborate a product. Other functions of this job placement are to buy human resources, IT, marketing, consultancy services, logistics, and many other services. Procurement managers also control operational aspects related to places, times and strategic planning for purchases.

A Procurement manager usually performs many of the following tasks:
• Keeping up to date with market trends.
• Searching for new suppliers.
• Negotiating prices.
• Checking total costs.
• Working with stakeholders to define needs.

• Having a good knowledge about IT systems.
• Having competent planning and organising skills.
• Having good math abilities.
• Being a leader.
• Being able to work with a team.
• Having good decision making abilities.
• Being able to work under pressure.
• Having excellent negotiation skills.
• Having good spoken and written communication.
• Having special attention to details.

There some cases where non-graduates applicants can reach a Procurement manager job, but most entrants to this area are graduates. It is recommended to have a degree or Foundation degree in logistics, supply chain management or business studies. Some employers require special knowledge related to the industry sector and good interpersonal and communication skills.

Courses mentioned before last mostly three years. Other courses include a work placement and last four years. This last option is very useful to obtain skills needed for a commercial position.