Purchasing Manager jobs
It doesn't matter what sector an organisation operates in. Whether it's medical, manufacturing, construction, education, government, defence or something else, it's essential to procure the right goods and services to keep business moving.
That's why Purchasing Managers are critical members of the procurement team. They are responsible for ensuring raw materials, components, goods, equipment and other assets are obtained on time and within budget. Of course, these acquisitions must adhere to approved quality standards.
As a Purchasing Manager, you will be tasked with finding suppliers, negotiating contracts and monitoring the service provided. Depending on your particular job description, you will probably be required to find ways of improving the supply chain, working to set KPIs and implementing change.
For example, this could mean renegotiating contracts, determining best practice procedures and making use of the latest technologies to make cost savings, enhance performance and improve customer satisfaction.
The skills required
If you're thinking of taking on a role as a Purchasing Manager, you should have excellent negotiation and communication skills. Confidence in building relationships with external suppliers and reporting to company stakeholders is also a must.
A good understanding of the various technologies and software can be beneficial - and in some roles, this will be required.
It's also likely that you'll be heading up a team, so knowledge of management techniques and an ability to organise, motivate and train your staff are all good skills to have.
Purchasing Manager Jobs in Blackburn
A large town in Lancashire, Blackburn is a busy place with many opportunities for those looking for Purchasing Manager vacancies. Plus, it's just nine miles from Preston and 20 miles from Manchester, thus offering an easy commute for those who live or work in these other locations.
From the middle of the 13th century, Blackburn was a mill town that produced textiles - and was once known as the weaving capital of the world. The spinning jenny, was invented by local James Hargreaves in 1764 and it paved the way for Blackburn to become one of the first industrialised towns.
After the end of the second world war, Blackburn's textile sector experienced a brief boost, and then fell into decline. Along with the rest of the region, a combination of deindustrialisation and global competition meant much of the work was outsourced abroad and the town suffered economically.
Today, Blackburn is experiencing a renewal, as the economy switches from manufacturing-led industries to the service sector. However, around 20 per cent of the local workforce is still based in manufacturing, with one major employer being BAE Systems.
Other top employers in Blackburn include the local council and Blackburn College, as well as the East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust.
The IT, finance and communications sectors also play a big part in the local economy, and many of the leading companies in these fields can be found in places like Greenbank Business Park and Shadsworth Business Park.
Popular locations
Find Purchasing Manager vacancies with Cast UK
As one of the UK's leading recruitment consultancies in the fields of procurement, logistics and supply chain management, Cast UK can help you find the right job for your skills and qualifications.
Our clients are situated in locations across Britain and since our industry specialists also have regional expertise, we can provide the advice and assistance you need to ensure that your career is headed in the right direction.
To find out more about how Cast UK can help you recruit a Purchasing Manager for your business or find you a job as a Purchasing Manager then contact one of our consultant team on 0333 121 3345.
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