Procurement Manager

Skills and abilities: Excellent analytical skills and the ability to use data and analysis and research to generate insight and provide strategic directions for a business is most beneficial.

What are the responsibilities of a procurement manager? Of course an answer to this question is not a straight forward one as it may differ from one type of business to another.

A good example of the typical requirements for a procurement manager would be this role recently advertised on LinkedIn in South Africa

Manage and maintain the Import Purchase-to-pay process Accurate general ledger account allocations on orders Manage outstanding/open orders on JD Edwards system On-time document preparation for month-end Provide cost management information timeously to department Managers Liaising with treasury and clearing agents Negotiation with local and foreign suppliers Controlling and issuing of purchase orders Maintain records of all matters relating to purchases Skills & Experience: Excellent communication skills (written and verbal) Strong negotiation skills Computer Literacy is essential (JD Edwards an advantage) Minimum of 5 years’ procurement experience within the manufacturing environment

Additional capabilities

side from dealing with external suppliers, a procurement manager also works with managers, engineers, and executives within the company to engage in capital projects. By being involved early in the process, a procurement manager can ensure essential supplies are procured. Furthermore, a procurement manager monitors changes in the industry and develops forecasts to determine appropriate budgets. These forecasts are used to to develop comprehensive strategies to further the company’s operational goals.

Due to the technical and analytic nature of the position, a procurement manager often has at least a bachelor’s degree in a technical discipline. Also, a procurement manager will often have certification as a professional in supply management (CPSM) or will be a certified purchasing manager (CPM). A procurement manager also must be an excellent negotiator with in-depth knowledge of supply chain structures. Finally, a procurement manager must be able to effectively communicate with all levels of a business, and reconcile differences in understanding and vision. An effective procurement manager must be able to use diplomacy to keep various groups within a company on the same page and working towards the same goals.