Purchasing Assistant

An purchasing assistant helps to purchase products for their company to use or sell. They must be aware of stock and inventory at all times, as well as general sales and revenue trends (such as what is selling well or poorly). A purchasing assistant may be in charge of choosing which products to stock in inventory, as well as forming relationships with distributors and manufacturers.

It is important for the purchasing assistant to maintain a positive demeanor, as the ability to cooperate and work in a team environment is essential.

Computer skills are necessary in this position, as most purchasing assistants must type and run various company reports. Purchasing assistants also must be able to sit for long periods of time, as most of the day is usually spent in front of the computer.

The position of purchasing assistant may require a bachelor's degree; however, many times, a high school degree or its equivalent will suffice. It may be necessary that purchasing assistants must be able to lift up to 25 pounds, as the need to lift and move filing boxes and other small- to medium-size packages may arise from time to time.

With 3-6 years of experience as a Purchasing Assistant in Singapore, here are the main responsibilities:

• Assist in the procurement process by sourcing and obtaining quotations from vendors, evaluating proposals, and negotiating contracts. Collaborate with vendors to ensure timely delivery and cost-effectiveness of goods and services.
• Maintain accurate and updated records of purchase orders, invoices, and contracts in the procurement system. Ensure compliance with internal policies and procedures, and facilitate smooth auditing and reporting processes.
• Coordinate with internal departments to gather requirements, create purchase requisitions, and monitor inventory levels. Support cross-functional communication and optimize inventory management to meet operational needs.
• Conduct market research to identify potential suppliers, assess their capabilities, and recommend new sourcing opportunities.

For a Purchasing Assistant job role, the following qualifications are required:

• Strong knowledge of inventory management systems and purchasing processes to ensure timely and accurate procurement of goods and services.
• Proficiency in using computer programs and software applications, specifically for data entry, inventory tracking, and generating purchase orders.
• Excellent attention to detail to review purchase requisitions, compare pricing and specifications, and ensure compliance with organizational purchasing policies.
• Effective communication skills to liaise with vendors, negotiate pricing, and secure competitive bids for goods and services required by the organization.

The role of a Purchasing Assistant in Singapore, with 3-6 years of experience, is vital for ensuring smooth procurement processes. For professionals seeking alternative roles within the same domain, here are following options to consider:

• Procurement Specialist: A role that focuses on sourcing and selecting suppliers, negotiating contracts, and ensuring cost-effective procurement strategies.
• Supply Chain Coordinator: This position involves coordinating the movement and storage of goods, tracking inventory levels, and maintaining efficient supply chain operations.
• Inventory Control Analyst: A role dedicated to monitoring and managing inventory levels, analyzing demand patterns, and implementing strategies to optimize stock levels and minimize costs.
• Vendor Relationship Manager: This position involves managing relationships with vendors, conducting performance evaluations, and negotiating contracts to ensure long-term partnerships and favorable terms.

The job role of Purchasing Assistant in Singapore is projected to have a strong growth in the market. Based on a 10-year analysis, there is a consistent increase in demand for purchasing assistants due to the expanding business landscape. The job role plays a crucial role in procurement processes, supplier relationship management, and cost optimization. With Singapore being a prominent global business hub, the employment opportunities for purchasing assistants are expected to increase significantly. According to recent data, the number of employment opportunities for purchasing assistants in the future is estimated to be substantial, indicating a positive outlook for professionals in this field.