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How to write a Purchasing Manager job description sample

A Purchasing Manager, or Purchasing Director, is responsible for managing the purchasing department within an organization creating and implementing purchasing policies. Their main duties are to evaluate the purchasing procedures of the company, control the purchasing department budget, and manage costs.

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What does a Purchasing Manager do?

A Purchasing Manager oversees purchasing of raw materials and supplies procured by an organization. They ensure budgets are kept under control, and that all necessary protocols and guidelines are followed. The Purchasing Manager selects vendors and sets budgetary constraints for the purchasing department. They are also responsible for negotiating pricing on behalf of the company and overseeing the negotiation of contracts.

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Purchasing Manager Job Description Examples:

Purchasing Manager duties and responsibilities

A successful Purchasing Manager must have a detailed understanding of the company’s purchasing procedures. Some duties and responsibilities a strong candidate must be able to perform include:

  • Control the purchasing of raw materials, contracts, and other goods and services
  • Set and enforce a budget for the purchasing department
  • Evaluate purchasing policies
  • Develop and implement purchasing policies
  • Hire and train purchasing department staff
  • Maintain records of inventory to determine when new goods need to be ordered
  • Oversee the negotiations of all purchases made by the purchasing department
  • Negotiate on behalf of the organization and maintain good relationships with vendors

Purchasing Manager skills and qualifications

Purchasing Managers need to be organized and detail-oriented. Some additional skills and qualifications needed include:

  • Excellent time management skills
  • Exceptional leadership skills
  • Strong communication skills
  • Excellent negotiation skills
  • Adaptability
  • In-depth understanding of the market
  • Ability to maintain and control a department-wide budget
  • Excellent analytical and reporting skills

Purchasing Manager experience requirements

Ideal Purchasing Manager candidates will have prior experience in the same role or a similar Finance Management-related role. Candidates with three to five years experience in a lower-level position, such as a Purchasing Agent, should also be considered for the position if they have demonstrable leadership experience.

Purchasing Manager education and training requirements

An ideal Purchasing Manager candidate will have a university or college degree in business administration, commerce, economics, or a related discipline. Purchasing Manager candidates who work in specialized industries may need a related degree to ensure their expertise and knowledge. Candidates with a Supply Chain Management Professional (SCMP) qualification may also be at an advantage due to their additional training.

Purchasing Manager salary expectations

According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Purchasing Manager in Canada is $71,522 per year. Salaries vary based on external factors such as geographical location, size and type of industry, and level of experience.

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