Careers in purchasing encompass a wide range of professional interests and diverse industries. Buyers are needed in both public and private sector organisations throughout the UK, and the position is extremely important for both ensuring profit and optimising narrow budgets.

Purchasing professionals are needed in industries like construction and retail, as well as in local government, charity, and even law enforcement organisations. Positions are also available in businesses of all sizes, although competition for roles in larger corporate settings tend to be extremely competitive.  Recruitment agencies regularly list employment opportunities for jobs involving merchandising, procurement, and e-commerce. But there are numerous other aspects of the purchasing sector suited to those with expertise in a variety of professional spheres. Whatever the specialism, the profession demands individuals with a strong understanding of finance, aptitude in market research, organisational skills, and a particular aptitude for negotiating.

Average salaries are typically about £25K throughout the UK, but those working in London tend to earn significantly higher incomes. Typically, upper-level purchasing roles require years of professional experience in the industry and advanced qualifications or relevant degrees. There are also various entry-level positions available in the field, and applicants with degrees or NVQs in finance, purchasing, or economics are particularly desirable to employers.