The Importance of Procurement Specialists
Written by:
Appalachian State University
• Dec 20, 2024
Procurement specialists are professionals responsible for acquiring goods, services and materials that organizations need to operate effectively. They play a crucial role in maintaining the supply chain, controlling costs and supporting an organization’s overall efficiency. A bachelor’s degree can prepare aspiring procurement specialists to enjoy a rewarding career in supply chain management.
What Does a Procurement Specialist Do?
This position is a critical link between a company and its suppliers, ensuring the organization has access to the resources it needs at the right time, quality and price. Procurement specialists contribute significantly to an organization’s operational efficiency, cost management and overall competitiveness in the market.
What Are the Day-to-Day Duties of a Procurement Specialist?
Some of the skills and responsibilities of a procurement specialist include the following:
Analysis and reporting
This may include:
- Preparing regular reports on procurement activities, spending and savings
- Presenting the findings to management
Compliance
This may include:
- Ensuring all purchases adhere to company policies and relevant regulations
- Maintaining accurate records for auditing purposes
- Using ethical procurement processes
Cross-functional collaboration
This may include:
- Coordinating with various departments to understand their needs
- Aligning procurement strategies with the overall business objectives
Industry awareness
This may include:
- Conducting market research and analysis on pricing trends
- Analyzing spending patterns and identifying areas for potential savings
Inventory management
This may include:
- Coordinating with internal departments to assess needs
- Initiating reordering when necessary
- Monitoring and tracking inventory levels
Negotiation
This may include:
- Evaluating and negotiating vendor contracts
- Discussing terms and prices with suppliers
- Seeking cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality
- Reviewing invoices and budgets
Process improvement
This may include:
- Identifying and implementing ways to streamline procurement processes
- Developing strategies and criteria for improving the bidding process
Purchase order processing
This may include:
- Creating and issuing purchase orders
- Tracking order status and ensuring timely deliveries
- Resolving discrepancies or issues with orders
Quality control
This may include:
- Ensuring received goods meet specified standards
- Managing returns or exchanges for defective items
- Identifying risks and lead times for timely delivery
Vendor management
This may include:
- Researching, identifying and evaluating potential suppliers
- Developing strong supplier relationships
- Maintaining relationships with existing vendors
- Updating vendor databases
Supply Chain Shortages and Challenges
The COVID-19 pandemic caused significant disruptions to global supply chains, leading to widespread shortages across various industries. This prompted many organizations to reevaluate their procurement strategies and invest in more robust, flexible supply chain solutions. Today, ongoing challenges include container shortages, port congestion, rising shipping costs and unpredictable demand fluctuations. This has also led to a supply chain talent shortage.
Procurement specialists work across a wide range of career environments that involve a variety of challenges, including the following:
Consulting firms: Some specialists work for consulting companies, advising various clients on procurement strategies.
Corporate offices: Many procurement specialists work in traditional office settings, often as part of a larger procurement or supply chain department.
Distribution centers: Some specialists work in or frequently visit warehouses and distribution centers to oversee inventory management.
Fieldwork: Many procurement professionals visit supplier sites, attend trade shows and travel to different company locations.
Government buildings: Public sector workers might work in government offices or agencies.
Healthcare facilities: Procurement specialists also work in specialized medical supply departments in hospitals or clinics.
Manufacturing plants: In some industries, procurement specialists work on-site at production facilities to manage inventory and supplier relationships.
Multinational corporations: Procurement specialists employed by large global companies may need to work across different time zones and cultures.
Remote/hybrid work: As companies offer flexible work arrangements, procurement specialists may need to work from home or in a hybrid model.
Start-ups: In smaller companies, procurement specialists might work in more dynamic, less structured environments.
The work environment can vary significantly depending on the industry, company size and specific role. Procurement specialists must be adaptable, as they often interact with various departments within their organization, as well as external vendors and partners.
Core Academic Requirements
There is a wide range of procurement and related supply chain management careers. In all of them, a bachelor’s degree in a field such as business administration, supply chain management, finance, economics or operations management can be beneficial. Look for quality programs that have AACSB accreditation.
Many employers value relevant work experience and strong soft skills, such as communication, negotiation and analytical thinking. Skills typically required include attention to detail, communication, familiarity with relevant software and technologies, knowledge of supply chain management and strong negotiation abilities.
Procurement specialists work in an array of industries, including the following:
- Aerospace and defense
- Automotive
- Construction and engineering
- Education (universities and school districts)
- Energy and utilities
- Financial services
- Food and beverage
- Government and public sector
- Healthcare and pharmaceuticals
- Hospitality and tourism
- Manufacturing
- Nonprofit organizations
- Retail and e-commerce
- Technology and IT
- Telecommunications
A Career in Procurement Starts Now
Don’t miss this opportunity to become a game-changer in the world of procurement. Contact Appalachian State University today to learn more about the Online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) in Supply Chain Management and how it can launch your career as a procurement specialist.
App State’s strategic online course lineup lets you fulfill multiple requirements at once. Master essential writing skills, develop an analytical edge with business calculus and statistics and build your economic foundation — all while checking off your General Education requirements. Take the first step in your business career with App State Online.
Recommended Readings
4 Careers in Supply Chain Management
What Is the Supply Chain Talent Shortage?
Why AACSB Accreditation Matters When Choosing a Business Program
Sources:
All Things Supply Chain, Supply Chain Shortages and Its Impact on Manufacturing
Epic Sourcing, The Importance of Procurement Consultants
Harvard Business Review, “How to Address the Supply-Chain Staffing Crisis”
Indeed, Procurement Specialist Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications
LexCheck, Procurement Specialist: Roles and Responsibilities of an Evolving Position
New Stream Enterprises, Supply Chain Shortages: Why They Happen and What You Can Do