A text by Gleides Araujo, procurement expert at J2, in collaboration with J2’s redaction team.
A common perception of procurement specialists is that they are the “ugly duckling” whose principal function is to spend the company’s money. However, contrary to that belief, the complexity of procurement and therefore the buyer’s experience have a direct impact on a company’s financial success. In fact, the procurement profession is now very diverse. Here are a few tips for starting a career in procurement and becoming passionate about it, like the some 22,900 buyers in Canada¹.
Certifications and recognition
Currently, the buying profession is not regulated in Canada, but there are a few associations that support and represent professionals in this rewarding and stimulating career. Among others, the SCCA² (Supply Chain Canada Association) represents procurement professionals across all Canadian provinces and is a benchmark for training and the latest trends in the sector.
The P.G.C.A. certification is starting to be one of the most sought-after titles by employers in procurement in Canada and is ideal for buyers wishing to acquire practical and theoretical knowledge. It is offered exclusively by the SCCA. There are other technical training options available at CEGEPs, as well as certificates offered by some universities. Professionals wishing to transition into a career in procurement will benefit from these types of training programs and will be able to integrate into the profession more quickly.
What about training and education?
Beyond basic training, developing a set of skills is essential to understanding the daily challenges that a buyer constantly faces. Understanding the challenges and the non-routine nature of the job is essential to acquiring a solid foundation of knowledge and experience. Being attentive, meticulous, proactive, comfortable with numbers and ERP systems are essential assets for mastering the purchasing process and gaining in-depth knowledge of the market.
The job description
The title of a buyer can vary across different segments, depending on the type of company, industry, and even the category of products or services. In terms of sectors, there are the public (government), private (industries, public and private companies), non-profit (organizations), and associative (associations) sectors. Regardless of the sector, the categories or families of purchases for goods and services remain the same. They are divided into direct purchases (raw materials, components, subcontracting) and indirect purchases (all general materials and services necessary for the operation of the company). These categories influence the buyer’s title based on the expertise and skills required by the company.
Generalist or specialist?
A procurement professional may be a generalist or a specialist, depending on the segment in which they choose to work and the structure of the organization in which they will be employed. A generalist buyer may cover more than a dozen direct purchasing products (categories of materials, services, etc.) and must be familiar with the markets, their trends, and the products to be procured. For example, for components associated with engine production, procurement specialists must be familiar with the various manufacturers, distributors, parts and components, price ranges, etc.
On the other hand, a raw materials buyer could be considered a specialist in their industry. These procurement specialists will need to be familiar with manufacturing processes, chemical compositions, cost drivers that impact pricing, and much more. They work in specific sectors, such as chemical supply chains or in the fashion industry, for example.
In indirect purchasing, buyers may be recognized as generalists or specialists. The level of expertise comes with years of experience, working on different projects, and will also depend on the complexity of the roles played within the company. The level of expertise can evolve from an operational level to a strategic level, and from a junior position to a senior position.
Enthusiasm is important
One thing is certain: the beauty of procurement lies in the buyer’s enthusiasm toward their profession. In the eyes of managers who know how to leverage their buyers’ experience, they might quickly transform from “ugly ducklings” into “swans.” And this can have a significant impact: savings, product or service quality, authority with suppliers, and leadership in the face of competition.
The procurement field will always be on the lookout for swans. If you are interested in purchasing, it’s up to you to take the plunge and join this wonderful profession!
To learn more about our skills development offer or training service for procurement teams, contact us.
References :
1- Source : Acheteurs/acheteuses des commerces de détail et de gros – Système de projection des professions au Canada (SPPC) – Liste principale des accréditations – Canada.ca
2- Source : Supply Chain Canada Association
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