The modern procurement operation can take place entirely online, with secure networks set up between clients and suppliers to make the entire sourcing, contract drafting and procurement cycle simple, fast, accountable and reliable. This is called E-sourcing (electronic sourcing, eSourcing).
In charge of the E-sourcing operation will be the E-sourcing manager. The role can involve being dropped into the process at any stage, and employment will be based upon the appropriate ability and experience. Some companies, for example, might be new to E-sourcing and will expect the manager to take the job from nothing to full roll-out, which could include negotiating deals with solutions providers and overseeing the technical implementation. More often, however, the E-sourcing manager will be in charge of a system that is already running, and although training will be given, experience in this method of procurement will be advantageous.
As well as the electronic element, the E-sourcing manager will also be expected to build and maintain business relationships with suppliers. This is good practice and pays dividends when there is a problem to solve through discussion and negotiation.
In larger companies, the role will probably involve overseeing a department and managing people, so skills in that direction would certainly be a great help.
Since the daily work of the E-sourcing manager will involve a good deal of time spent on computers and in networks, excellent IT skills will usually be sought by employers looking to fill this role. Familiarity with specific systems will probably be an advantage but there are several off-the-shelf solutions and many bespoke solutions in the industry, expertise on one of them will be no guarantee of experience.
Being able to communicate well will help oil the wheels of the procurement effort. In-system negotiations will arrive at deals, but the face-to-face meetings and other link-ups with suppliers will be just as important. There will also need to be excellent lines of communication with those underneath the manager in order to better interpret company aims, as well as with those in senior positions in order to ensure corporate goals have been understood properly.
Whether you’re relocating for personal reasons or are simply looking for more job fulfilment, there could well be an employer who’s looking for the skills you have. At any given time, Cast UK have jobs all over the UK, so wherever you live, or plan to live, we are well placed to find work that suits your skills.
We were founded by specialists in the logistics, supply chain and procurement trade, and our consultants are also drawn from these backgrounds, so we know what employers and candidates are looking for. In fact, employers often approach us to find managerial and executive candidates, so if you’re in procurement, we’d be delighted to hear from you.
To find out more about how Cast UK can help you recruit an E-Sourcing Manager for your business or find you a job as an E-Sourcing Manager then contact one of our consultant team on 0161 825 0825.
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