Working as a technical buyer

Technical buyers normally work in purchasing departments and are responsible for analysing the supplier market. You will usually end up as a technical buyer at a large company in the mechanical engineering, automotive or product development sectors.

You will negotiate favourable terms for technical purchases of, for example, machinery or equipment. In addition, you will provide internal feedback on product quality and requirements and suggest changes to increase efficiency and save costs.

Although all types of buyers are involved in purchasing products and materials for a company, there are some important differences between buyers. A technical buyer has broad technical knowledge of technologies and products. This is necessary for a company’s production process.

Other buyers often focus on other types of goods or services. A tactical buyer, for example, thinks more in terms of customer needs. Technical buyers also often have to deal with stricter quality requirements and safety regulations. This can make the role even more challenging.

A broad knowledge and affinity for technology are two factors that will contribute to your performance as a technical buyer. The broad knowledge will mainly have to be recruited for the technologies and products needed for the company’s production. The main tasks are contacting suppliers, managing prices and new contracts. In addition, ordering products, tracking deliveries and cost reduction opportunities are also important aspects. Furthermore, as a buyer, you will ensure that the products delivered meet quality requirements. The role of the technical buyer is important for a successful production process. We therefore understand better than anyone that it is essential for a company to invest in trained professionals for this role.

As mentioned earlier, the job of a technical buyer requires excellent research and analytical skills. Daarnaast is het voordelig om te beschikken over inzicht in technische onderdelen, commerciële vaardigheden, probleemoplossend vermogen en communicatieve vaardigheden. Een goede beheersing van de Engelse taal in woord en schrift zijn punten die kunnen bijdrage om eenvoudiger nieuwe contacten te kunnen leggen. Zeker in een groot technisch bedrijf kan dit een vereiste zijn. Met de bedrijfsdoelstellingen in het vizier en goede organisatorische vaardigheden om het inkoopproces te beheren kom je al technisch verkoper een heel eind. De belangrijkste vaardigheden zijn hieronder overzichtelijk weergegeven.

1. Excellent research and analytical skills: A technical buyer must be familiar with the market and be able to assess different suppliers. Determining which products and services are most suitable for his organisation is important in this respect.
2. Knowledge of technical specifications: As a technical buyer, an understanding of product specifications is essential when negotiating with suppliers on, for example, prices and contract terms. A passion for technology can certainly contribute to this.
3. Strong negotiation and communication skills: It is important for technical buyers to be able to communicate effectively with suppliers. In doing so, this can contribute to finding new suppliers through telephone contact, for example.
4. Knowledge of market trends and suppliers: Keeping abreast of industry trends such as technological developments or changes in supplier costs are essential for making informed purchasing decisions.
5. Problem-solving ability: It is important for technical buyers to have problem-solving skills to deal with potentially difficult circumstances that may arise during negotiations or deliveries.
6. Ability to make strategic decisions: A technical buyer must be able to make strategic decisions that can increase efficiency and profitability in view of business objectives.

Technical buyers need education and training to be successful in their jobs. This can include knowledge of the market, technologies and products, analytical and communication skills. Appropriate technical training provides an invaluable background for technical buyers. Various training courses focused on contract management, negotiation and supply chain management, for example, can help develop the necessary competences. Investing in qualified technical buyers with relevant education and training is positive for companies. Regarding education and training, we are aware that there is always room for personal development. We do not judge someone based on education but on what they have to offer. Are you looking for a new step in your career? We would like to explore with you whether we can make this possible.

Work experience, in addition to education, is essential for technical buyers. Als inkoper zul je over de nodige praktische kennis en vaardigheden moeten beschikken om technologieën, producten en materialen beter te begrijpen. Het kan de inzicht in de markt, leveranciers, veiligheidsvoorschriften verbeteren. In addition, as a buyer, it allows you to solve problems faster.

To market yourself well as a technical buyer, we have a few more tips. You can become more effective in your work as a buyer by keeping up to date with the latest trends and technologies. You can also improve your analytical skills by working a lot with data and finance. Optionally, you can attend training and courses to help develop skills in negotiations, contract management, supply chain management and communication. Working with internal stakeholders, such as technical teams and quality managers, can help you better understand production challenges. By further developing skills, technical buyers can contribute to the success of their business and distinguish themselves well as professionals.