Purchasing Specialist jobs
Procurement and supply chain management are an important part of any company, no matter what the industry or business model.
The Purchasing Specialist for a manufacturing facility, for example, will need to find suppliers and liaise with them to ensure the raw materials for a project are delivered on time and within budget. That way, production can continue at the intended pace.
Meanwhile, the Purchasing Specialist for a supermarket chain will source the various products sold in shops, making sure all products are priced competitively and that shelves are always well stocked.
Of course, having too much of something could actually be detrimental to a company. Warehouse space for overstocked goods can be difficult to find and the extra inventory can be problematic for a company’s bottom line. As a Purchasing Specialist, you will need to find and maintain the right balance.
The skills required
Depending on the employer, the role of a Purchasing Specialist will vary. In any position, however, strong organisational skills and an ability to communicate and negotiate effectively are essential. You should also be able to demonstrate a working knowledge of the systems and software that are commonly used in the field.
Self-motivation is important, and you should always be looking for ways to improve efficiency, reduce costs and improve customer perceptions. In most cases, you will also be responsible for reporting on KPIs to company stakeholders.
Many Purchasing Specialists will be team leaders and daily tasks may include training and providing guidance to staff, as well as dealing with any problems as they arise.
Purchasing Specialist Jobs in Bangor
The County Down town of Bangor is a north-facing seaside town lying 10 miles (16 km) east of the centre of Northern Ireland’s capital Belfast. Newtownards is a few miles to the south, but Bangor is surrounded on all sides by lush agricultural land, making it a desirable place to live, favoured by affluent people and commuters to the city. It’s also a resort for holidaymakers and day-trippers, with parks and golf clubs aplenty. The front, which opens up onto the eastern part of Belfast Lough, has three distinct characters. To the west it is made up of low cliffs and rock formations; in amongst the rocks is a popular marina; and to the east there’s a cove with a sandy beach.
Bangor is connected to Belfast by the last remaining part of the Victorian Belfast and County Down Railway, and has two stations, with regular services. There is also the main A2 road which connects the two in a 20-minute drive. Towards the end of the journey you would pass Belfast City Airport, a commuter favourite, handy for Bangor’s business community.
At the south of Bangor is a business park with various light industry as well as leisure facilities such as ex-Formula One driver Eddie Irvine’s enterprise, an activity centre with karting, paintball, laser combat and football. With a population of around 60,000 with relatively affluent needs, logistics and supply chain positions such as Purchasing Specialist jobs do appear from time to time in Bangor, but widening your search to include Belfast would certainly pay dividends.
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Discover Purchasing Specialist roles with Cast UK
Based in Manchester, Cast UK undertakes recruitment projects for clients throughout the country, helping to find the right talent for every vacancy.
Our team of consultants have previously worked in these fields, meaning they have an understanding of what makes a good candidate. We also have a team of regional specialists who can provide advice about the job market in particular areas.
To find out more about how Cast UK can help you recruit a Purchasing Specialist for your business or find you a job as a Purchasing Specialist then contact one of our consultant team on 0333 121 3345.
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