Procurement & Supply
There are many different job roles within the purchasing and supply career path. Job titles can include procurement officer, buyer, supply chain manager, supplier relationship manager, contract manager, category buyer, purchasing manager and assistant buyer, these are only a few of many.

Typical duties within purchasing are to carry out market research to look at market trends and forecast future buying, to develop new buying strategies and identify suppliers. It will be your job to meet and arrange contracts with suppliers then monitor these to ensure that contracts and standards are being met. Within this role you will have to monitor stocks, attend trade conferences and network. Budget management skills are also essential.

Graduates working in a supply chain role may find themselves working in operations, distribution, warehousing and logistics. These departments are different from a pure purchasing function, as they tend to involve managing the depots and making sure the flow of goods come in on time Often processes may need updating, new systems and procedures need implementing to keep operations running smoothly and effectively. It’s a profession that needs all round skills and abilities, and there’s never a dull moment.

Transport
The transport industry tends to deal mainly with the movement of people either in a planning or management role. In planning roles your work will focus on the growth of travel networks across the road, rails skies and sea. To do this you will be heavily involved in IT using models to show possible outcomes of new ideas and general growth. You will have to create and produce new schemes that will enhance your specific travel area. Often the role will require lots of lateral thinking to see what external problems may affect proposals.

In management areas personnel are likely to be in charge of transport operations at a location. This will involve developing passenger services, ensuring health and safety is adhered to and dealing with customer enquiries and complaints. You will also be working with contracted services such as cleaners, carrying out man management, producing rotas and looking after wages. Other tasks that you will have to deal with are peripheral problems that occur such as weather and faulty vehicles so problem solving is an essential attribute needed.

Logistics
When working within logistics and supply you will be dealing with supplier’s manufacturers, retailers and customers ensuring goods are delivered. There will be a great deal of planning and organising required and problem solving in the face of external factors including fuel prices and environmental issues. Working in logistics means you will be involved in the transporting and storing of goods and ensuring they meet quality standards required. To do this you will be involved in measuring stock levels, sourcing and negotiating with suppliers, analysing performance and enhancing systems to raise efficiency. It will also be necessary to be aware of health and safety issues and managing and motivating staff to increase companies’ profitability.

Procurement & Supply element written by the Chartered Institute of Purchasing & Supply. Find out more at www.cips.org.