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 Wales
Known for its stunning coastlines and charming villages, sweeping landscapes and bustling cities and towns like Cardiff, Swansea, Barry, Newport and Aberystwyth, Wales offers an array of opportunities for those seeking Purchasing Specialist vacancies.
With the dawn of the Industrial Revolution, the Welsh economy expanded significantly and the few small industries that existed before the 18th century - such as agriculture, milling, textile production and mining - all grew rapidly.
Techniques for copper smelting were developed in Swansea, while ironwork, slate quarrying and coal mining were also big business. Meanwhile, the Cardiff docks were extremely important during the 19th century for the shipment of coal and steelwork.
Today, Wales has a predominately post-industrial economy and the service sector has grown significantly since the end of the second world war. A number of financial companies have regional headquarters here, including Legal & General, HBOS, ING Direct, the AA and BT.
In addition, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency is situated in Swansea - it maintains a database of vehicles in Great Britain and deals with other tasks like selling private number plates and issuing licences.
While heavy industry in Wales has declined over the years, the country is still home to a number of manufacturing and steelmaking facilities. Indeed, the Port Talbot Steel Works produces around five million tonnes of steel every year. There are also two oil refineries in Milford Haven, as well as a Ford engine factory in Bridgend.
Agriculture and food production are another element to the Welsh economy, while forestry and fishing are small but thriving industries in the region.
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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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