Also referred to as a purchasing manager, a procurement supervisor manages the various aspects of a supply chain. Someone in this position typically ensures a consistent and adequate supply of materials is procured and at the ready for a manufacturing operation. Various duties of a procurement supervisor may include managing imports, understanding shipping regulations, and performing an analysis on suppliers and their capacities. Possessing high-level negotiating skills is usually a prized trait in a procurement supervisor. Someone who works in this position may have supervisory functions similar to other mid-level management jobs.
The procurement supervisor will typically ensure the flow of required supplies is adequate at all times. Doing so allows for optimal productivity, as a reliable supply chain is a major contributor to a leaner manufacturing operation. A supply chain consists of all the links between the source of required supplies, and the end destination at a manufacturing facility. Tracking shipments generally involves employing analytics. This is typically done to ensure both optimal efficiency and reliability in procurement channels.
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The supervisor usually will stay abreast of any changes related to imports and shipping regulations. Keeping track of the various legislative changes that may affect the import of goods is a critical aspect of a procurement manager. Even if goods are not imported, there are still shipping regulations that may apply. For example, a procurement supervisor would need to have at least some familiarity with shipment regulations if a raw material that poses risks to public safety were part of the company's supply chain.
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Those who work in procurement management are usually expected to possess higher than average competency as a negotiator. Since it's likely that the seller will want the top price for a supply-chain item, and the buyer usually wants to reduce costs, there is a tension involved when negotiating for the best deal. Negotiating skills become even more paramount if a high level of competition exists for a necessary item.
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A procurement supervisor may also research and make recommendations to company management in the event of a price hike. These recommendations may include a materials analysis of other sources for the item. At times, if critical supplies are hampered by a highly competitive market, the procurement supervisor may research and make recommendations for a substitute material. In other cases, the procurement supervisor may search for and locate a better product in order to maintain a competitive, innovative edge. This type of position is generally classied as mid-level management.