Industrial buyer : Entry requirements

Entry requirements vary depending on the type and size of the employing organisation. Large retail stores and wholesale distribution centres prefer applicants who have completed a degree with a business emphasis. Some manufacturing firms place greater emphasis on formal training and knowledge of the field and therefore may prefer applicants with a degree in engineering, economics or one of the applied sciences. So, although this area of work is open to all graduates, the following degree subjects may improve your chances:

• business studies;
• purchasing and logistics;
• purchasing and supply;
• marketing;
• management;
• retail management;
• operations management;
• engineering.

A number of specialist undergraduate degrees have been accredited by the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply (CIPS)  and are a route into membership of the Institute. See the CIPS website for more details.

Whilst most advertised positions are for graduates only, it is still possible to enter at a lower level and gain promotion with experience. There may also be a small number of openings for HND holders, particularly for Diplomates with specialist technical training.

A postgraduate qualification is not essential, although there are a growing number of Masters degrees and Diplomas in purchasing, supply and logistics. The Graduate Diploma offered by the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply (CIPS) is increasingly becoming a route to a postgraduate qualification in purchasing and supply and is the most usual route to membership of the Institute. The Diploma programme can be followed part-time and exemptions exist for HNC/HND holders. Other courses accredited by CIPS offer alternative ways into membership and many are available on a part-time basis. See the CIPS website for details.

Candidates will need to show evidence of the following:

• good oral and written communication skills
• analytical skills;
• commercial awareness;
• a good standard of numeracy in order to analyse facts and figures;
• a flair for negotiation and networking;
• the ability to make important decisions and cope with the pressure of demanding targets and tight deadlines;
• a confident and mature approach;
• tact and diplomacy.

Buyers must enjoy meeting people and be highly competent at managing relationships with company managers, colleagues and suppliers. Previous business experience, especially gained in buying and selling, would be advantageous. Relevant work experience/shadowing, paid or unpaid, or a sandwich placement, will enhance your chances of selection. Competition is keen but not as severe as for related areas such as marketing. Some organisations run summer vacation schemes.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.