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Industrial buyer : Salary and conditions

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  1. Job description
  2. Salary and conditions
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Case studies

  • Range of typical starting salaries (this may be at assistant or junior buyer level): £20,000 - £25,000.
  • Range of salaries after three to five years' experience: £30,000 - £40,000.
  • Range of typical salaries after ten years in the role: £55,000 - £65,000 (all salary data collected June 2010).
  • There is some regional variation in salaries, and some manufacturing and retailing companies with very high annual turnovers are known to offer higher salaries. Some companies also offer excellent benefit packages.
  • Working hours are fairly standard although there may be an expectation for buyers to work longer hours when the need arises, on which occasions it would not be unusual to work late into the night. If the company is international, it may occasionally be necessary to arrive at the office early to make calls to countries in different time zones. 
  • Procurement is a fast moving world and there is often a busy and lively atmosphere in the office. Contact with other people such as wholesalers and manufacturers is frequent.
  • Opportunities to become a self-employed consultant or freelance contract worker are increasing, particularly when you have some experience and a proven track record of success.
  • Part-time opportunities are unlikely because of the heavy workload and fast pace of business.
  • Jobs are available in most towns and cities, particularly if there is a strong manufacturing and retailing base. However, buyers tend to be based at head offices, many of which are located in London or the South East. Since commercial buying is a global activity, there may be opportunities for working abroad, language skills permitting.
  • There are currently more men than women employed as buyers in industry.
  • As this is a high-profile role in the corporate sector, a smart business-like appearance is essential.
  • It is important to be able to adapt to different client needs and to develop and maintain successful working relationships.
  • An ability to work to tight deadlines is important.
  • There is a high level of responsibility, which may bring considerable stress.
  • Some local and regional travel is expected. Long journeys may involve staying away from home for short periods.
  • The amount of overseas travel involved will depend on the company, but typically it is infrequent. The purpose will usually be to attend trade shows or set up business agreements with new contacts.
 
AGCAS
Written by AGCAS editors
Date: 
June 2010
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