Would you like to work as a buyer for a company? This professional must have certain qualities and skills. In this article, find out everything you need to know about the purchasing profession: missions, qualities, studies and salary.
In summary:
- The buyer’s job involves managing all the processes involved in the procurement of goods and services for a company.
- To carry out their missions properly, these professionals need strong negotiating and communication skills.
- In order to enter the job market more easily, they can take a course at a leading business school such as ESCE and obtain a diploma. Certification can be a great asset in improving your application.
- Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced buyer, you’ll enjoy an attractive salary. Nonetheless, the most seasoned employees enjoy a more significant salary.
What does a buyer do?
A buyer, also known as a purchasing manager, is responsible for managing the procurement of goods and services needed to keep a company running smoothly. It plays a key role in the supply chain. He makes sure he gets the best products or services at the best value for money. To do this, he has a number of missions. Among other things, he or she negotiates with suppliers, evaluates bids, and ensures that products or services meet the company’s needs.
What are the main missions of a buyer?
A buyer must :
- analyze the company’s needs in terms of goods or services. To achieve this, the professional must work with various departments within the company;
- search for potential suppliers and new partners;
- negotiate purchasing conditions favorable to the company: set prices, payment terms, delivery methods;
- manage contracts and monitor supplier performance;
- monitor markets and trends;
- find solutions to reduce costs while maintaining product or service quality.
What are the main qualities and skills you need to be a buyer?
To excel as a buyer, it goes without saying that you need to have certain qualities and skills. These include :
- negotiation and communication skills ;
- in-depth market knowledge ;
- risk management ;
- rapid decision-making ;
- understanding economic and financial issues.
How do I become a buyer?
It’s important to know that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to training to become a buyer. However, the majority of experts in this field have at least a bac +3 or bac +5 degree. Training in business, management, economics or purchasing is often the preferred route to becoming a buyer. Business schools and universities offering courses in management or logistics, as well as specialized courses in purchasing, can be relevant choices. In addition, professional experience, internships and further training in the purchasing field are also assets for accessing this profession.
How much does a buyer earn?
A buyer ‘s salary varies considerably. It depends on a number of factors, such as experience, business sector, company size and geographical location. In general, beginners can expect an annual salary of between 30,000 and 40,000 euros. With several years’ experience, this figure can increase significantly. It can be as much as €40,000 or €60,000 a year.
In more specialized sectors or in large companies, experienced buyers enjoy higher remuneration. They can earn salaries in excess of 70,000 euros a year, or even more. Bonuses, benefits and performance-related bonuses also contribute to their overall salary.
It should be noted that these figures are indicative and may vary according to the specific features of the industry and company concerned.
How to become a buyer at ESCE?
To become a buyer, you can take a course at ESCE (École Supérieure du Commerce Extérieur). The latter offers a Bachelor’s program in International Trade & Customs Management, delivered on a sandwich course at the Paris campus. This course offers a comprehensive approach to international trade, with an emphasis on customs management. During the course, you can acquire essential skills in negotiation, contract management, international logistics and customs techniques. This knowledge provides a solid foundation for a buyer or for those wishing to progress in the purchasing field.
The work-study nature of the program will enable you to apply your knowledge directly in a professional environment. Work-study programs make for a smoother transition to the world of work. Thanks to this specialized training, ESCE graduates will be well-prepared to meet the challenges of the purchasing profession at both national and international level.
It is also possible to follow the Purchasing specialization of the Grande École program, also offered on a sandwich course basis.
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