Purchasing managers plan, organize, direct, control and evaluate the activities of a purchasing department and develop and implement the purchasing policies of a business or institution. They are employed throughout the public and private sectors.

• A bachelor's degree or college diploma in business administration, commerce or economics is usually required.
  
• Purchasing managers responsible for units purchasing specialized materials or business services may require a related degree or diploma. For example, a bachelor's degree or college diploma in engineering may be required for purchasing managers responsible for purchasing industrial products.
  
• The designation Supply Chain Management Professional (SCMP) or registration in the educational program of the Supply Chain Management Association may be required.
  
• Several years of experience as a purchasing agent or officer are required.