en

Services

The UK's leading employers trust us to deliver fast, efficient talent solutions that are tailored to their exact requirements. Browse our range of bespoke services and resources.

Read more
Jobs

Let our industry specialists listen to your aspirations and present your story to the most esteemed organisations in the UK, as we collaborate to write the next chapter of your successful career.

See all jobs
Services

The UK's leading employers trust us to deliver fast, efficient talent solutions that are tailored to their exact requirements. Browse our range of bespoke services and resources.

Read more
About Robert Walters UK

Since our establishment in 1985, our belief remains the same: Building strong relationships with people is vital in a successful partnership.

Learn more

Work for us

Our people are the difference. Hear stories from our people to learn more about a career at Robert Walters UK

Learn more

The role of a purchasing manager

A purchasing manager, also known as a purchasing director or supply manager, heads a team responsible for procuring goods and services for resale or company use. They seek the best available quality for the lowest price. They evaluate suppliers, negotiate contracts, and review product quality.

What do purchasing managers do?

The responsibilities of a purchasing manager vary depending on the industry. Those who work for manufacturers purchase raw or minimally processed materials. Those who work for wholesalers or retailers purchase finished goods. Their duties include studying the market to identify price trends and future availability of materials and goods; locating vendors; negotiating prices; preparing requisitions and purchase orders; and maintaining purchase records. They will usually manage other professionals in the supply chain and procurement area of the business and will work as part of a wider team.

What skills do I need in order to become a purchasing manager?

Financial management skills are essential to being a good purchasing manager. A purchasing manager should have good management skills, market researching tactics, negotiation skills, communication skills, and marketing capabilities.

Profitable decision making is a very important requirement that is needed in the purchasing management field.

 

As is it a senior position, good people management and interpersonal skills are also imperative. Holding this job requires having a bachelor's degree and work experience in purchasing. Often, candidates must also have certification from one of several supply chain programs.

Which qualifications do I need in order to become a purchasing manager?

Many employers prefer individuals who have earned bachelor degrees in a business, finance or economic related field. However. Some may also prefer job candidates who have earned certification in the field as well and can demonstrate excellent practical skills.

Found out how much a purchasing manager can earn in the UK with our free Salary Guide 2024.

Share this article

Useful Links

Sign up for job alerts
Salary survey
Career advice
Get in touch

Find out more by contacting one of our specialist recruitment consultants

Related content

View All
Top Talent Trends In Recruitment 2025

In this e-guide we have gathered insights and views from experts within the recruitment industry to share the talent trends for 2025. From how organisations should be taking inspiration from the big retailers on treating your candidates like customers to window working - the latest productivity hack

Read More
Prioritise personal development in 2025

The rising pressure to upskill in 2025, personal development has become a critical focus for professionals across the UK. Recent surveys indicate that two-thirds (66%) of UK professionals now feel increased pressure to upskill compared to just a year ago. This trend is exacerbated by the fact that 7

Read More
4 reasons to integrate Statement of Work to your workforce strategy

In today's fast-changing economic environment, having flexible workforce strategies is more important than ever. The services procurement market is projected to grow at an annual rate of 20% from 2025 to 2028. A survey by Everest Group reveals that 64% of organisations are looking to incorporate tem

Read More

I'm Robert Walters Are you?

Come join our global team of creative thinkers, problem solvers and game changers. We offer accelerated career progression, a dynamic culture and expert training.