Finance & accounting

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• an apprenticeship
• working towards this role
• applying directly

University

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

For more information

• equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
• student finance for fees and living costs|https://www.gov.uk/student-finance
• university courses and entry requirements|https://www.ucas.com/

Apprenticeship

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

For more information

• equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
• guide to apprenticeships|https://www.gov.uk/apprenticeships-guide

Work

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 Purchasing and Supply.

Direct application

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.

More information

Professional and industry bodies

You could join the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply for professional development training and industry contacts, which could help with your career.

Further information

You can get more advice about becoming a purchasing manager from the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply.

View all vacancies in this region

As your career develops, you could work towards becoming a Member of the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (MCIPS). This is internationally recognised and can lead to chartered status.

With experience, you could apply for senior roles like head of department, specialise in a particular industry or become a purchasing consultant.