National

Plan, direct, or coordinate the activities of buyers, purchasing officers, and related workers involved in purchasing materials, products, and services.

Sample of reported job titles: Purchasing Manager, Materials Manager, Director of Purchasing, Commodity Manager, Director of Materials, Director of Strategic Sourcing, Procurement Manager, Procurement Officer, Purchasing Director, Purchasing Supervisor

Tasks

• Represent companies in negotiating contracts and formulating policies with suppliers.
• Direct and coordinate activities of personnel engaged in buying, selling, and distributing materials, equipment, machinery, and supplies.
• Interview and hire staff, and oversee staff training.
• Locate vendors of materials, equipment or supplies, and interview them to determine product availability and terms of sales.
• Prepare and process requisitions and purchase orders for supplies and equipment.
• Develop and implement purchasing and contract management instructions, policies, and procedures.
• Maintain records of goods ordered and received.
• Participate in the development of specifications for equipment, products or substitute materials.
• Analyze market and delivery systems to assess present and future material availability.
• Resolve vendor or contractor grievances, and claims against suppliers.

back to top

Tools & Technology

Tools used in this occupation:

Technology used in this occupation: