Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
Purchasing Managers are responsible for overseeing the procurement of goods and services for an organization. They negotiate with suppliers to secure advantageous terms, ensure the quality of purchases, and manage the supply chain effectively.
Education: Bachelor's degree
Years in related career: 5 years or more
On-the-job training: None
Projected Growth: 4.4% (above average)
Annual job openings: 6,400
Direct AI exposure: 11% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 83% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $148K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $92K per year | $116K per year | $148K per year | $182K per year | $223K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $97K above the national average. | ||||
Purchasing Managers typically work in an office environment within a wide range of industries including manufacturing, retail, and government sectors. Their role often involves interacting with suppliers, meeting with organizational department heads, and coordinating with procurement staff.
Purchasing Managers play a critical role in optimizing an organization's spending and supply chain operations. They are involved in making strategic decisions about purchasing that directly impact an organization's bottom line. This involves analyzing market trends, understanding internal needs, and identifying the best suppliers and products. Their goal is to balance cost-effectiveness with quality and reliability.
Strong negotiation and communication skills are essential in this role, as Purchasing Managers often negotiate terms with suppliers and communicate purchasing strategies to their teams and other departments. They must be adept at contract management, ensuring that agreements with suppliers are favorable and legally compliant.
The role requires staying informed about market conditions, changes in supply chain regulations, and emerging technologies in procurement. Purchasing Managers must also be effective leaders who can manage and motivate their teams, fostering an environment of continuous improvement and strategic thinking.
A bachelor's degree in business, supply chain management, or a related field is commonly required. Some organizations may prefer candidates with a master's degree in business administration (MBA) or relevant work experience in purchasing or procurement.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
