Purchasing managers ensure the effective supply of machinery, raw materials and services to enterprises by buying items, which are used or processed by the company.
The main duty of purchasing managers is to find suppliers that offer the best value. They compare catalogues and journals, telephone suppliers, examine samples and attend demonstrations and conferences. Consultation with employees in the various departments helps determine the specifications of the items needed.
Purchasing managers need to establish good business relationships with suppliers to obtain satisfactory payment plans, quick delivery for emergency orders and cost savings. They are required to check delivered goods before payment can be authorized and therefore a sound knowledge of every aspect of the company is needed.
Satisfying Aspects
- having variety and excitement in the work
- helping to establish buying trends
- experiencing the excitement of the work
Demanding aspects
- the pressure to keep sales increasing by wise merchandise selection
- in some cases, relatively long and irregular hours
- the personality conflicts that sometimes arise in a competitive fast-pace field
- and the necessity of travelling, in some instances
Requirements
A purchasing manager should:
- have good verbal and written expression;
- be able to work with others;
- be alert to recognise and make use of favourable opportunities;
- negotiate in a tactful but decisive manner;
- have confidence, persuasiveness and resilience.
School Subjects
National Senior Certificate meeting degree requirements for a degree course
National Senior Certificate meeting diploma requirements for a diploma course or in-service training
Each institution will have its own minimum entry requirements.
Compulsory Subjects: Mathematics.
Recommended Subjects: Business Science, Accounting, Economics
Training
Degree: A relevant BCom degree such as Business Management or Purchase and Materials Management can be followed at most South African universities. BCom, BBusSc, BAdmin, BA with business and marketing subjects - UNISA, UKZN, UZ
Diploma: The N.Dip. Purchasing Management - VUT.
There are several private, technical and correspondence colleges that offer appropriate courses.
Many companies have in-service training for their own purchasing personnel.
Regular seminars are held by the Institute of Purchasing.
Employer
- Large companies
- Suppliers and distributors of any kind of merchandise
- Manufacturers of computers and communication equipment
- City council
- Regional government
- Mining groups
Contact
Institute of Purchasing and Supply South Africa
Tel: (011) 331-6650 Fax: (011) 331-0383
www.ipsa.co.za