Procurement Assistant: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path
Learn about the key skills, qualifications, and career path for a Procurement Assistant
Practice Interviews Online - Identify your strengths and weakness in a realistic Procurement Assistant mock interview, under 10 minutes
Practice Now »What is a Procurement Assistant?
As a Procurement Assistant in the UK, you will play a key role in acquiring the necessary materials, equipment and products from various suppliers, ensuring businesses have what they need to operate efficiently. This job involves researching and comparing options, negotiating prices and deals, and maintaining positive relationships with both internal teams and external vendors.
Skills
- Strong communication and negotiation skills
- Attention to detail and accuracy
- Ability to analyze data and make informed decisions
- Knowledge of procurement processes and procedures
- Time management and organizational skills
- Ability to work well under pressure and meet deadlines
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other relevant software
- Customer service skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Knowledge of supply chain management and logistics
Qualifications & Education
- No formal academic requirements
- Some employers expect A levels/H grades, BTEC/SQA awards or degrees
- Specific experience may be required for certain roles
- Professional qualifications in Procurement at Levels 2, 3 and 4 are available
- NVQs/SVQs in Procurement at Levels 2, 3 and 4 are available
Career Path
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, procurement can be a stressful job due to high-pressure deadlines and competing priorities.
A career in procurement involves sourcing and purchasing products and services for a company, including components for products, products for sale, and goods and services for internal use. As a procurement assistant, you would support the procurement manager in these tasks.
A procurement assistant can progress to roles such as buyer, purchasing manager, and eventually director of purchasing.
A good procurement assistant should have a good understanding of supply chain procedures, strong organizational skills, attention to detail, knowledge of market trends, proficiency in purchasing software and MS Excel, and the ability to negotiate and maintain accurate records.
Identify your strengths and weakness in a realistic Procurement Assistant mock interview, under 10 minutes
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