The era of digital transformation has triggered a change in consumption patterns and customer needs. In this new model in which efficiency in transporting and shipping products is key to customer satisfaction, logistics has become a differentiating factor, and is essential for attracting and, above all, retaining consumers.
This change explains why companies today value professionals who have a deep understanding of all the strategic aspects of the supply chain, and the best way to master the ins and outs of this industry is to opt for specialized training, taught by experts with years of experience. The Online Master’s in Supply Chain Management is the best option to learn all the details, in depth.
Understanding the exact meaning of “purchase manager” is crucial before considering it as a future career or comparing it to other professions. Purchasing managers are responsible for analyzing, choosing, and monitoring suppliers that offer products and services that best meet the business’s needs.
This involves taking into account key aspects for the optimization of processes and the company’s bottom line, such as quality, price, and delivery times. In other words, purchasing managers are a key figure in guaranteeing the operation of a company’s logistics processes.
To achieve the best results and optimize all logistics, purchasing managers need a global vision of the company, understanding the needs of different departments and potential customers. In the job description of a Purchasing Manager, various tasks are worth highlighting:
The process begins with an in-depth analysis of all possible suppliers. This involves analyzing their reputation, the price they charge for their services, and their turnover. Once a pre-selection has been carried out, purchasing managers pay a visit to the possible suppliers to check if they meet requirements and gather first-hand information in order to make the final decision.
Let’s talk more about the requested services. In addition to the economic aspects, it is essential that the purchasing manager clearly defines the delivery times and payment terms in the contract.
A purchasing manager is the person in charge of ensuring that all items received are in perfect condition and meet the quality standards that the company and its customers demand. If there is any deficiency, they are responsible for getting in touch with the supplier and solving the problem.
A key responsibility of any company is to ensure nothing goes wrong with the inventory; there can neither be a surplus nor shortages of products. This is the only way to offer the service demanded by the customer and maintain their satisfaction and trust in the brand.
Based on these tasks, the responsibilities required by this position can be deduced. Here are the main ones:
Purchasing managers must ensure that all logistics and administrative processes comply with the legal regulations of the country where they are carried out and that contracts and transactions are conducted according to the legislation.
One of the key responsibilities is to ensure the availability of supplies at all times and that the activity is not paralyzed by any logistics-related problem.
Purchasing managers supervise their team member’s work, ensuring they perform their duties and are satisfied with their work. They are responsible for assigning daily tasks, fostering a good work environment, evaluating performance, and facilitating training based on the specific and general needs of each team member.
The performance of suppliers must be evaluated through KPIs defined by the purchasing manager. He or she must also analyze and optimize any aspect of the purchasing process that can be improved and modify these processes if necessary, based on the company’s strategy.
Market trends change, as does technology. A purchasing manager must be aware of any new tools that can speed up processes and propose their adoption if they believe it can improve results.
These are two positions with many similarities but also significant differences. The main difference is that the procurement manager is a more strategic position, while the purchasing manager focuses on ensuring everything runs smoothly throughout the day.
The main objective of the purchasing manager is to obtain the products offered by suppliers at the best possible price and receive them within the indicated timeframe. The procurement manager, on the other hand, must strategically plan all acquisitions, understand requirements, and resolve any conflicts that may arise.
Therefore, a purchasing manager’s job is more linked to daily activities, selecting suppliers, negotiating prices, conditions, and delivery times, and monitoring the logistics process and delivery. The procurement manager needs to have a more global vision, evaluating service quality, customer satisfaction, and other aspects such as risk or sustainability.
As with other professions, the salary of a purchasing manager varies significantly depending on location, the type and size of the company, previous professional experience, and the sector. In the European Union, the average monthly salary is around 2,000 euros, while in the United States, it ranges from $84,000 to $173,000 per year.
To reach a purchasing manager position, specific training that provides the necessary knowledge to perform essential tasks and previous professional experience that provides necessary skills are required.
While a bachelor’s degree in business administration or economics provides a good foundation, specialized training is the best way to acquire the essential knowledge for this job. To advance in the career, it is also advisable to gain previous internship experience, which allows you to gain experience in daily processes and develop skills such as leadership, negotiation, data analysis, and decision making.
If you think this profession matches what you are looking for in a job, it is important that, in addition to the training and specific qualifications mentioned, you possess a series of skills and competencies that will make you particularly attractive to companies.
As mentioned earlier, the Online Master’s in Supply Chain Management provides all the necessary knowledge and skills to start developing your career as a purchasing manager. If you want to know a little more, here’s why choosing this program is the best decision for your professional future in the sector:
After studying this master’s degree for one year, students’ salaries increase by 27%. In addition, alumni work in prestigious companies in the logistics sector such as Pirelli, Glovo or Leroy Merlin.
Among the perks of this program is the option to participate in a week-long international experience (Silicon Valley, Barcelona, Paris, Qatar, London, etc.) and complete your own project and present it during the Bootcamp Experience.
You will get first-hand knowledge of managing a company like DHL, get hands-on experience for the SCPRO Level 1 certification, and work on a final project directed by real companies.
You can study for the only certification in the market that covers the entire supply chain. Obtaining it will significantly increase your employability.
You can study at your own pace, following live lessons via streaming and benefitting from resources such as digital tools, weekly summaries, forum discussions, and much more. Flexibility is the best way to make the most of the training.
