Buyer / Purchasing manager: missions, skills, training, salary and career development

With the evolution of markets and the growing complexity of supply chains, the role of the buyer has become central to ensuring the competitiveness and efficiency of companies. Responsible for planning, managing and optimising purchasing, the buyer plays a crucial role in the supply chain. They ensure that the best products are obtained at the best prices, while meeting deadlines and quality standards. Buyers work in a variety of sectors, including retail,industry and international trade.

Description of the job of Buyer / Purchasing Manager

The buyer or purchasing manager is a key player in the field of procurement and logistics, responsible for planning, managing and optimising the company's purchases. They negotiate with suppliers, manage supplies and ensure that the best conditions are obtained in terms of quality, price and delivery times. Buyers work in a variety of sectors, including retail,industry, services and international trade.

What is the role and remit of the Buyer / Purchasing Manager?

Developing the purchasing strategy

The Purchasing Manager develops and implements the company's purchasing strategy. They define the objectives, identify the company's needs and plan the actions to be taken to optimise stock management and logistics. They must also keep abreast of the latest trends and technologies in the supply chain to adapt and optimise existing strategies.

Managing and optimising purchasing

The buyer oversees purchasing and supply management. This includes prospecting for new suppliers, negotiating contracts and managing specifications. They are also responsible for optimising purchasing processes to maximise efficiency and reduce costs.

Performance analysis and reporting

Buyers analyse purchasing performance data to measure efficiency and identify areas for improvement. They use analysis tools to monitor performance, generate detailed reports and make recommendations based on the data. They also present these reports to management to assess progress and the results of the strategies implemented.

Managing supplier relations and disputes

The buyer supervises relations with suppliers, manages disputes and ensures the quality of deliveries. They must also evaluate supplier performance and adapt procurement strategies accordingly.

Tools and technologies used by the Buyer / Purchasing Manager

Purchasing management systems (ERP)

ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle and Microsoft Dynamics are widely used to manage purchasing and supply chain processes. These platforms enable data to be centralised, orders to be tracked and stocks to be managed efficiently.

Purchasing management and analysis tools

Specialist purchasing management and supply chain analysis tools are essential for optimising performance. Solutions such as Coupa, Ariba (SAP) and Ivalua can be used to manage the entire purchasing process, from sourcing to payment. For purchasing data analysis and supplier management, tools such as Sievo or Synertrade offer advanced business intelligence and predictive analysis capabilities, helping buyers to make informed decisions and identify savings opportunities.

What skills do you need to be a good Buyer / Purchasing Manager?

Professional skills:

• Mastery of purchasing negotiation and management techniques.
• Logistics and supply optimisation skills.
• Knowledge of analysis and project management tools.
• Expertise in sourcing and supplier management.
• Inventory and supply chain management skills.

Personal skills:

• Communication skills to collaborate with internal and external teams.
• Analytical skills to assess performance and optimise strategies.
• Thoroughness and attention to detail to ensure accurate ordering and reporting.
• Adaptability to react quickly to market trends and technological changes.
• Leadership and team management to motivate and direct staff.

What are the current challenges facing a Buyer / Purchasing Manager?

Rapidly evolving technologies and digital platforms

The purchasing sector is constantly evolving with the emergence of new technologies, platforms and practices. Buyers need to keep abreast of the latest trends and innovations to adapt their strategies accordingly. This rapid evolution can present a challenge in terms of ongoing training and adapting to new practices.

Managing the quality and quantity of purchases

Striking a balance between the quantity needed to maintain an active online presence and the quality of purchases to ensure their effectiveness and impact is a major challenge.

Performance analysis and return on investment (ROI)

Measuring the effectiveness of purchasing and justifying the return on investment (ROI) of purchasing strategies is an ongoing challenge. Buyers need to use advanced analytical tools to track purchasing performance, generate accurate reports and adjust strategies based on the results.

How do I get to be a Buyer / Purchasing Manager?

Education and training

To become a Buyer / Purchasing Manager, you generally need a 5-year degree in business, management, logistics or purchasing. The following courses are particularly popular:

• Master's degree in purchasing management
• MBA in international business
• Business school diploma with a specialisation in purchasing

EM Normandie offers courses tailored to this profession, including the MSc Supply Chain Management. This course provides the necessary skills in purchasing management, negotiation, supply chain optimisation and data analysis. It offers comprehensive preparation for becoming a successful Buyer / Purchasing Manager, capable of effectively managing the complex challenges of the modern supply chain.

Professional experience

Significant experience in positions of responsibility in purchasing and logistics management is essential. Traineeships in marketing agencies or positions as purchasing assistants are key steps towards becoming a Buyer / Purchasing Manager.

Career development and prospects for a Buyer / Purchasing Manager

• Progression to Purchasing Director or Chief Procurement Officer (CPO) positions.
• Opportunities in large companies, communications agencies or start-ups.
• Possibility of becoming a purchasing consultant or setting up your own consultancy.
• Transition to the role of purchasing strategist or digital transformation consultant.

What does a Buyer / Purchasing Manager earn?

The salary of a Buyer / Purchasing Manager varies according to experience, the size of the company and the sector of activity:

• Beginner: Gross annual salary (approx.): €30,000 - €40,000
• 2-5 years' experience: Gross annual salary (approx.): €40,000 - €55,000
• 5+ years' experience: Gross annual salary (approx.): €55,000 and more (with possible bonuses)

In what field does a Buyer / Purchasing Manager work?

A variety of employers:

Purchasing Managers can work in a variety of organisations, including :

• Large companies and international groups.
• SMEs and start-ups.
• Marketing and communications agencies.
• Non-profit organisations and associations.

Main areas:

A Buyer / Purchasing Manager works in several sectors, including:

• E-commerce: managing supplies for online sales platforms, negotiating with suppliers to ensure product availability.
• Technology: Purchasing electronic components, managing contracts with cloud service and software providers.
• Financial Services: Procurement of IT equipment, management of service contracts, procurement of supplies for bank branches.
• Healthcare and pharmaceuticals: Purchasing medical equipment, negotiating contracts for drugs and laboratory equipment, managing supplies of medical consumables.

In summary

The job of Buyer / Purchasing Manager is essential for ensuring the performance of a company's procurement strategies. As the central pillar of purchasing management activities, the Buyer / Purchasing Manager plays a crucial role in cost optimisation, stock management and supply chain efficiency. Their ability to analyse data, negotiate with suppliers and manage purchasing strategies is vital to the success and growth of companies. The job of Buyer / Purchasing Manager is a high-level position requiring diversified skills and a great ability to manage strategic responsibilities. It's a dynamic role that offers opportunities for growth and career development, while playing a central role in the success and stability of companies.