There is no set entry route to become a purchasing manager, though it may be useful to study for a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in a subject like:

• business studies
• logistics and procurement
• purchasing and supply
• marketing
• supply chain management

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree

You could start as a trainee purchasing manager by doing a:

• Procurement and Supply Assistant Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
• Commercial Procurement and Supply Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
• Senior Procurement and Supply Chain Professional Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship

These can take between 2 and 3 years to complete.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

You may be able to join a company as an administrator or assistant in a purchasing department. You could work your way up as you get more experience.

You might also take professional qualifications while working, through an organisation like the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply.

You can apply directly for jobs if you have several years' experience in buying and purchasing. If you have a degree, you may be able to join a graduate management training scheme.

You'll need:

• business management skills
• customer service skills
• the ability to use your initiative
• to be flexible and open to change
• analytical thinking skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• maths knowledge
• persuading and negotiating skills
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

As a purchasing manager, you could:

• identify what goods, services and equipment are needed
• draw up tenders and assess bids from potential suppliers
• present any legal or commercial risks to senior leadership teams
• identify savings, negotiate prices and agree contracts with suppliers
• monitor the performance of contracted suppliers
• manage a purchasing team and make sure rules are followed correctly

You could work in an office.