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 Devon
Located in the south-west of England, with coastlines on the Bristol Channel, English Channel and the Celtic Sea, Devon shares a border with Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset.
It is one of the largest counties in England and with settlements including Exeter, Dartmouth, Plymouth and Torbay, there are a number of Purchasing Specialist positions to be found in Devon.
Devon has been occupied by humans for many thousands of years. Indeed, human remains from as many as 40,000 years ago have been found in the region, while Romans and Anglo-Saxons also called the region home.
In the past, Devon's core industries included farming, fishing and mining, while the seaside resorts brought significant wealth to the area in their heydays.
These days, the region is still heavily reliant on agriculture and dairy, producing products like milk and cheese, as well as the famous Devonshire cream.
A number of well-known companies can be found in the area, including the Wrigley chewing gum company and Beverage Brands, which makes WKD vodka.
The Met Office is also located in Devon, as is the Britannia Royal Naval College and HNBP Devonport.
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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