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 Rotherham
Rotherham first came into bloom in the Middle Ages, when it became an important market town for the region. But it was the discovery of coal in the area that made it into an industrialised town in the 18th and 19th centuries. This helped the iron smelting works that sprung up, and Rotherham became well known for its cast iron, with its fireplaces, stoves and fencing being exported widely.
Later, the skills were used to develop steelworks, but although successful, it was neighbouring city Sheffield that became synonymous with quality steelware. Ironically, Rotherham is now a respected centre of high-tech steel components, and some of its local firms precision engineer steel for the aviation and motor racing industries. Rolls Royce have recently started work on a casting factory for their jet engine components, such is the expertise in the area.
One trade Rotherham also became well known for was milling (hence Rotherham United FC’s nickname “the millers”). Dozens of large mills were erected in the town, with grain being brought into the city from the surrounding areas. The link with the food industry remains today, as Premier Foods has a warehousing and distributions centre, which is in fact on the site of a mill. This is one of the reasons, along with good road, rail and industry links, that makes Rotherham a good place for Purchasing Specialist vacancies.
Rotherham is the home town of goalkeeper David Seaman (and referee Howard Webb), politician William Hague and, most importantly, Barry and Paul Elliott, also known as the Chuckle Borthers.
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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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