A combination of formal education, industry training, and entry-level field experience is required to become a purchasing administrator. A bachelor’s degree in business or economics is preferred many wholesale and manufacturing companies that hire purchasing managers and assistants. It’s also necessary to have a good understanding of the retail environment and how goods move through the distribution pipeline. Most companies offer a formal training program or pair assistant buyers with more experienced employees to learn the fundamentals of the business.
In order to advance into an executive management position, aspirant purchasing administrators should keep in mind that an advanced degree may be required. As a result, a bachelor’s degree in business administration, economics, or an applied science is beneficial. Those interested in working as a purchasing administrator should look for opportunities to learn about the retail industry while still in school. Getting a part-time job in merchandising or retail sales, or a summer internship in procurement, can help someone learn about the industry’s practices.
Those nearing the end of their degree programs should start looking into manufacturing, wholesale, and retail companies that hire new college graduates for assistant buyer positions. Some of these companies offer entry-level training programs for those interested in becoming purchasing administrators. Over the course of a year or more, these entry-level positions allow new graduates to become acquainted with the firm’s environment and the responsibilities of a purchasing manager.
The majority of those who aspire to be purchasing administrators begin their careers in support roles. They may start out as junior assistants or assistant buyers. An individual must gain purchasing experience and learn how a company operates before taking on an executive management role. Purchasing for a manufacturing company, for example, differs significantly from that of a high-end department store.
Purchasing assistants learn how to find and secure the right mix of products, compile and interpret market data, and respond to fluctuating inventory levels from more experienced counterparts. They may also gain more exposure and insight into the supply chain process, as well as make industry connections with suppliers and gain experience managing salespeople. A company may recommend that an individual be given more responsibility once they have gained experience and exposure to the duties of a buyer.
Those who want to work as a purchasing administrator should consider getting a master’s degree in business, marketing, or retail management. Many senior buyers go on to get a master’s degree because it may be required for advancement. Senior buyers are frequently in charge of junior buyers, merchandise managers, and a number of sales reps. Certification in merchandise planning and purchasing may also be required in some countries.