Purchasing specialists are agents who procure a company’s goods and supplies. They make comparisons between multiple vendors to determine which one has the best quality and prices. They must negotiate with them to get an ideal agreement in terms of quantity, quality, and price. Their role is to make a seamless procurement process.
Purchasing specialists must also keep track of inventory and request restocking when necessary. In order to get the best deals with third-party vendors, they must stay up-to-date with industry trends. Purchasing specialists usually work under the supervision of the purchasing manager or other experienced colleagues. It is not mandatory, but some employers might ask you to have a Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP) certification or Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) credential.
