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Degrees and Schools
Depending on the industry, a degree in engineering, business administration, finance, economics, supply chain management or logistics may be appropriate for this career. Degree programs in most of these areas can be found at universities and colleges throughout the US. Supply chain management and logistics programs are not common although coursework in these areas as part of a business program are fairly easy to find.
Coursework
Below is a sampling of the types of courses that are suitable for someone looking to become a purchasing manager:
- business economics
- market and sales forecasting
- supply chain management
- supply chain optimization
- logistics systems
- global supply chains
- purchasing management
- negotiations and contracts
- business ethics
- lean supply chain management
Online Classes and Programs
Most degree programs that can lead to a position as a purchasing manger can be found online. Business and economics degree programs are abundant online as are engineering programs. Supply chain management and logistics programs can also be found online in smaller numbers and coursework in these areas as part of a business degree program is also available. Students should make sure the school and program they choose are accredited by agencies that are recognized by the US Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation(CHEA).
Employment Requirements
Many purchasing manager positions require a bachelor's degree and some higher level positions will require a master's degree. Experience as a buyer or purchasing agent in the same industry is typically required for a purchasing manager position. Leadership skills, strong math skills and the ability to analyze technical data and perform financial analysis are important skills to have. Professional certification can also be helpful, especially for those without substantial work experience. Individuals should research the type of certification employers in their industry prefer since there are a few different options.
How to Evaluate Schools and Programs
Individuals choosing a degree program in preparation for a career as a purchasing manager should ask the following questions:
- Coursework - Does the program offer electives that are applicable to a purchasing manager position? Does the program offer courses that teach practical skills such as negotiating and budgeting?
- Internships - Are internships required or encouraged? Do the internship options match the student's future career goals?
- Costs - What are the tuition and fee amounts? How much financial aid is the student likely to get and what kind? Will the amount that needs to be borrowed be reasonable?
- Job Placement - What type of work are past graduates engaged in? What assistance does the school provide in helping students find a job after graduation?
- Accreditation - Is the program accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) or another recognized agency? Is the school accredited by a regional accrediting agency?
Purchasing Managers Job Description
Almost every organization, regardless of industry or purpose, needs to purchase goods to run their business. Whether it be a manufacturer buying raw materials, a retailer purchasing finished goods for retail sale or a government agency purchasing office supplies, all organizations need to have a person or department responsible for purchasing these goods. When the needs are large or complicated, the organization will have a purchasing department to focus on this often critical aspect of running a business. Purchasing managers, who are sometimes called procurement managers, are responsible for the smooth running of a purchasing department. They are typically employed by manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers and government agencies as well as the military.
The responsibilities of a purchasing manager vary but may include some of those listed below:
- identify and evaluate potential suppliers
- negotiate contracts with suppliers
- train and supervise purchasing agents
- ensure suppliers can meet purchasing needs
- establish policies, processes and procedures
- create a budget and manage costs
- develop and implement sourcing strategies
- perform cost/benefit analysis of procurement options
Resources
Institute for Supply Management - The ISM supports supply management professionals through standards of excellence, certifications, publications, educational products and research.
American Purchasing Society - This organization provides education, certifications, recruitment services and other resources to help their members improve the purchasing function.
National Institute of Governmental Purchasing - The NIGP supports public purchasing professionals through education and research programs, technical services and advocacy. They provide seminars and webinars, have a research center and provide consultancy services.
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