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 Scotland
From Glasgow to Edinburgh, Gretna Green to Inverness, Scotland is a beautiful country that offers plenty of opportunity for those seeking Purchasing Specialist vacancies.
Scotland has had a long and tumultuous history, particularly during the 16th and 17th centuries when relations with England were fraught with difficulty.
In 1707, the Acts of Union were passed and the Kingdom of Great Britain was created. This resulted in the abolishment of trade tariffs and the Scottish economy quickly grew. Clippers carried tobacco to Glasgow from the New World during the 18th century. Then, during the Industrial Revolution, everything from ships and locomotives through to coal, textiles and steel were produced on a massive scale.
Fast forward to today and Scotland's economy is more focused on the service sector - although manufacturing and oil production are still important.
Edinburgh is one of Europe's largest financial centres, home to companies like Lloyds, Standard Life, the Bank of Scotland and the Royal Bank of Scotland. It's also the seat of Scottish government and an important tourist destination, hosting one of the largest culture festivals in the world.
Whisky is one of Scotland's best-known exports, with numerous distilleries and bottlers located around the country, including Glenfiddich, Glenmorangie and Teacher's Highland Cream, as well as liqueurs like Drambuie and Glayva.
Other companies with headquarters or regional facilities in Scotland include IBM and Hewlett-Packard, Sun Microsystems, Amazon, BAE and Rolls-Royce.
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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