Purchasing Agent Job Profile
A purchasing agent is required to check inventory levels, analyze sales and keep a track on the changes in the market which may affect the price and availability of supplies. They look for suppliers that provide goods at a lower rate. In a nut shell, purchasing agents are responsible for all the activities that involve procurement of services and goods like equipments, tools, advertising, supplies and secondary aspects of the establishment.
These individuals also determine the methods of procurement - bid or direct purchase. They prepare purchase orders and bid requests, as also review bid proposals while negotiating contracts limited to authority and budgetary limitations. Maintenance of computerized and manual records is also done by purchasing agents. They discuss defective goods and services and look into matters of quality control and deal with inspection personnel, vendors and users to maintain high quality.
Purchasing agents should have a good perception of the business and strive for best deals in purchasing services and products. Familiarity with the current trends and price changes lets them take important purchasing decisions efficiently. They must ensure that the business does not run short of supplies, affecting the overall production of a company. Purchasing agents consider various aspects of the purchase from cost, delivery fee to quantity of supplies required. One has to be good in multitasking to be a good purchasing agent.
Skills Required
Proficiency with spreadsheet software, word processing and internet is a must for purchasing agents to survive in the high tech world. Along with strong communication skills, they should be able to analyze data and be familiar with the supply chain, mathematical knowledge. Management and negotiation skills are helpful as is expertise in the area of financial analysis. Planning and decision making skills of the purchasing agents should be up to the mark. They should also know how to do multi-tasking.
Academic Qualifications and Training
A purchasing agent requires a degree in business administration. Prospective purchasing agents have to undergo training that is provided on the job. A lot of companies also prefer master's degree in business. On the basis of the company you are applying for, technical knowledge about specific supplies would be needed. Certification may be an added advantage for the candidates too.
Salary and Job Prospects
Due to increased use of computers and internet, purchasing agents are able to research the products and compare prices efficiently and quickly. According to Labor Statistics, USA, there would be greater requirements of purchasing agents through 2016. The average annual salary of the purchasing agent is around $66,730. There can be variations depending on the employers, company size and industry they are working in.
Purchasing agents may advance to the position of assistant purchasing managers, logistic managers, director of material managements with experience and advanced certifications. Aspiring purchasing agents may find work in large firms, corporate offices, manufacturing facilities, retail and wholesale offices and government offices.
