Purchasing Specialist jobs
Procurement and supply chain management are an important part of any company, no matter what the industry or business model.
The Purchasing Specialist for a manufacturing facility, for example, will need to find suppliers and liaise with them to ensure the raw materials for a project are delivered on time and within budget. That way, production can continue at the intended pace.
Meanwhile, the Purchasing Specialist for a supermarket chain will source the various products sold in shops, making sure all products are priced competitively and that shelves are always well stocked.
Of course, having too much of something could actually be detrimental to a company. Warehouse space for overstocked goods can be difficult to find and the extra inventory can be problematic for a company’s bottom line. As a Purchasing Specialist, you will need to find and maintain the right balance.
The skills required
Depending on the employer, the role of a Purchasing Specialist will vary. In any position, however, strong organisational skills and an ability to communicate and negotiate effectively are essential. You should also be able to demonstrate a working knowledge of the systems and software that are commonly used in the field.
Self-motivation is important, and you should always be looking for ways to improve efficiency, reduce costs and improve customer perceptions. In most cases, you will also be responsible for reporting on KPIs to company stakeholders.
Many Purchasing Specialists will be team leaders and daily tasks may include training and providing guidance to staff, as well as dealing with any problems as they arise.
Purchasing Specialist Jobs in Aberdeen
Scotland's third most populous city after Edinburgh and Glasgow, Aberdeen is also known as the Granite City, since many of its beautiful 18th and 19th century buildings are constructed from the local stone. It's a great place for those seeking Purchasing Specialist vacancies.
There have been settlements in the region for over 8,000 years and it was an important site during the Wars of Scottish Independence.
Significant expansion occurred during the 19th century, with the growth of the shipbuilding and fishing industries, as well as textiles, metalwork, papermaking and stone quarrying. Much of the existing harbour was built during this time, including the Victoria Dock, the South Breakwater and part of the North Pier.
During the late 20th century, oil was discovered in the North Sea and Aberdeen has since become known as the oil capital of Europe. A number of off-shore oil rigs have been erected and companies in the region have begun to focus their efforts on finding renewable energy sources as well.
In addition to the energy and petrochemicals sector, Aberdeen is home to various research facilities that study everything from fisheries, soil, food, nutrition and agriculture through to technology and electronics design.
Just some of the firms that call Aberdeen home include Abbot Group Ltd, Dana Petroleum, Wood Group and Aberdeen Asset Management.
Popular locations
Discover Purchasing Specialist roles with Cast UK
Based in Manchester, Cast UK undertakes recruitment projects for clients throughout the country, helping to find the right talent for every vacancy.
Our team of consultants have previously worked in these fields, meaning they have an understanding of what makes a good candidate. We also have a team of regional specialists who can provide advice about the job market in particular areas.
To find out more about how Cast UK can help you recruit a Purchasing Specialist for your business or find you a job as a Purchasing Specialist then contact one of our consultant team on 0333 121 3345.
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