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 Buckinghamshire
One of the London Home Counties, Buckinghamshire also shares a border with Berkshire, Oxfordshire, Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and Northamptonshire. It's a popular choice for those seeking Purchasing Specialist vacancies and offers a wealth of opportunities - for those who wish to live and work in the area, or commute to the capital.
During the industrial revolution, the region was known for its lace making and it's said that Queen Victoria used the delicate material for her pillows. After the arrival of the railway, furniture and paper production both took off in Buckinghamshire and heavy industry like the manufacture of train carriages was also big business.
Indeed, the 19th century was extremely lucrative for Buckinghamshire, and evidence of this can still be seen today in the many beautiful Victorian buildings that are spread across the county.
These days, Buckinghamshire's economy is mainly based in the service sector and studies have shown that it's one of the best places to live in the UK, with one of the highest life expectancies and some of the best school results in the country.
The region is still used for a lot of agricultural production, while furniture manufacture and pharmaceuticals are also major sources of employment.
What's more, the world-famous Pinewood Studios are located in Buckinghamshire. This studio has been the location of filming for a variety of big-name productions, including several James Bond films, the Superman franchise, Batman Returns and scenes from Peter Jackson's The Hobbit.
Popular locations
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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