What are the 4 Primary Responsibilities of Purchasing Managers?

Purchasing managers wear several different hats. Typically, the larger the company the more specialized they are in their job duties and responsibilities and the smaller the company the more all-encompassing their duties.

Purchasing managers not only place orders with suppliers and vendors but they also make efforts to build a strong relationship with the people behind the companies they deal with. A good relationship is very helpful in taking their business to a new level and part of that hinges on a command of their own responsibilities.It is also important that the purchasing managers remain balanced and not get lax in an attempt to better a relationship with one of the vendors because even a sight mistake can result in huge losses.

The purchasing and procurement job is quite challenging and each day can present new challenges and new people to deal with. Excellent communication is one of the core requirements for success in this position. Though there are many variations and nuances within the purchasing manager position

Here are four responsibilities that are considered an essential part of the job:

Management duties

The purchasing manager needs to handle the management of the various resources and coordinate them properly. In the field of management they oversee the decisions related to scheduling the meetings of the suppliers and the vendors. It is their duty to ensure that the stock is always in surplus and the keep a check on the market trends as well. The management duties are not just restricted to coordination but evaluation and monitoring the different departments so that they can run efficiently. It may also involve managing other people within the purchasing department.

Procurement duties

The procurement duties are related to the inventory stock of the company, ensuring that all the products are available and ready in a timely manner. The purchasing manager has to prepare the list of the products and coordinate with the vendors so that a consistent and regular supply flow is maintained. Having too much stock on hand can be problematic at tax time and tie up resources that would be better served elsewhere throughout the year. Having too little can cause delays and impact profits. It’s a constant balancing act that should be fine-tuned and constantly working to make better and better.

Contractual duties

Contract management is one of the important tasks which are accomplished by the purchasing managers. While dealing with the suppliers and vendors, the managers have to negotiate, prepare and execute contracts. Some will be for one-time only purchases and other contracts are for extended periods of time and set up regular order intervals or pricing structures. Some companies may have access to attorney’s while smaller companies may rely on the purchasing manager to review and approve purchasing contracts.

Analytical duties

The analytical duties focus on the changing demands of the people and how to bring about upgrades, advancements, and updates based on the data being analyzed. The purchasing managers have to be familiar with the market trend and possess the desired knowledge to take the right decision. It could also involve running reports, finding problems, or creating better processes to become more efficient.