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 Edinburgh
Known for its romantic skyline, beautiful castle and fascinating history, Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland and the second most populated city north of the border.
People have been living in Auld Reekie, as it is affectionately known by locals, since at least the Bronze Age and throughout the Middle Ages, Renaissance and Scottish Reformation in the 16th century, it flourished as a market town, a royal burgh and a centre of commerce and culture.
During the Industrial Revolution, the city began to spread outwards in every direction. As more people came to the city, tenement flats were built and factories and businesses established. While Glasgow may have overtaken the capital during this period in terms of economy and population, Edinburgh maintained its prominence and continued to thrive.
After devolution in 1999, Edinburgh became the home of the Scottish Parliament and Scottish Executive. Today, the city is the heart of the Scottish government. It also plays an important part in other sectors, such as finance, publishing, media and tourism, offering a wealth of opportunities for those seeking Purchasing Specialist jobs.
Companies based in Edinburgh today include Edinburgh University Press, The Scotsman, HBOS, the Royal Bank of Scotland, Scottish Widows, Rockstar North and Caledonian Breweries.
In addition, the city hosts the Edinburgh Festival every year. Comprising a number of different events like the International Festival and the Edinburgh Fringe, this is a month-long celebration of music and theatre, comedy and the arts.
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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