Purchasing managers buy various goods for different purposes in all types of organizations. The specific items purchased depend on the industry and company size. Retail or wholesale purchasing managers buy merchandise for resale, while those in manufacturing purchase large equipment or perishable items. Purchasing managers also negotiate contracts for goods or services.
Purchasing manager jobs can be found in all types of organizations from factories to farms to clothing stores to hospitals. Also called Purchasing Managers, Purchasing Agents, or Buyers, people in this position purchase a variety of goods for a variety of purposes. Shopping and purchasing are similar concepts, but shopping focuses more on cost and trying to get the highest quality products at the lowest possible price.
The specific items purchased by a purchasing manager depend on the type of company or organization doing the purchasing. Products vary depending on the type of industry, what it takes to do business and the size of the company. Senior Purchasing Manager positions require in-depth knowledge of the purchased goods or services. These positions are routinely via career advancement and may require years of experience.
Retail or wholesale purchasing managers are also called buyers and typically purchase merchandise that will be resold to the public or another business. Examples of items purchased in this sector include clothing, electronics, and food products. Buyers work closely with merchandise manufacturers or wholesalers to find the best prices for the merchandise they purchase. These types of purchasing manager tasks require good instincts regarding consumer needs and wants and a solid understanding of the market in which the company operates.
Some purchasing manager jobs can be found in manufacturing companies such as agricultural, food or gas companies. These agents can purchase large equipment such as trucks, drills or tractors. Purchasing managers working for a food manufacturer may purchase grain or produce for use in food products that will be sold in supermarkets for resale to the public. Specialized knowledge and industry experience are important for these purchasing manager jobs because the purchased items can be expensive or perishable.
Purchasing manager jobs are typically found in corporations and small businesses. These positions involve purchasing materials, supplies, and equipment needed to run a business. This can range from office furniture to computers and printer papers. Large companies may ask purchasing managers to buy merchandise for multiple locations because buying more saves money through quantity discounts. Experience in business and finance helps with this type of procurement work, because accurate budgeting is often the focus of large corporations.
Because purchasing focuses on getting the best deal at the lowest price, some senior purchasing manager positions specialize in negotiating contracts for goods or services. These positions require industry knowledge and a keen awareness of commodity prices and availability. Experience with lead times and seasonal issues can be important when negotiating some contracts. Good communication and effective negotiation skills are vital for purchasing manager jobs specializing in contract formulation.
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