Latest news: Job growth in buyer roles

Graduates looking to get into buying, procurement and supply management have been given a boost after a survey showed a significant increase in demand for jobs in the sector. 08/12/2011

Job vacancies rose by a third in quarter two of 2011 when compared with 2010, with roles for procurement officers up to 200%, according to the data from recruitment company Hays Procurement.

Other job titles on the up include senior buyers (110% more vacancies) and procurement managers (75%).

Despite procurement traditionally being a private sector role, the data showed a notable increase in recruitment in the public sector, with a 29% increase in the public sector jobs in the first half of 2011.

‘The financial crisis and continuing uncertainties weighing on the global economy have led many companies to review their business strategies and to expand parts of their operations that ultimately help them to reduce costs and ensure the sustainability of future growth,’ said David Noble, CEO of the Chartered Institute of Purchasing & Supply.

'Recent scrutiny of government procurement strategies has led to more strategic employment in the sector,’ he added.

As ever, the highest concentration of job vacancies remains in the South East and London, with 40% of advertised jobs being based there. However, the Midlands and the South West both took a 12% share of the market.

The area is also a well-paid one, particularly in the retail sector, with senior procurement officers regularly receiving salaries of between £75,000 and £100,000.