No change predicted in job market
By Lisa van der Pool -- Purchasing, 8/12/1999 6:00:00 AM
Hiring professionals predict no change in the booming job market for purchasing professionals. According to Jeffrey Joerres, Manpower president and chief executive officer, "We are in a protracted period of opportunity for workers of nearly all types." Others in the hiring market echo his opinion on a continued strong job market.
"We anticipate no change in our line of business," says Lynn Lamb, director of placement for purchasing and materials at Fortune Personnel of Huntsville, Alabama.
"It has been strong for the past two years and it will continue in that same pattern," says John A. Thompson chairman at IMCOR a division of Norrell Inc. "I can't see anything that says the economy is going to turn around."
Strong skills needed at all levels
Lately the collective sentiment of hiring professionals seems to be that there are not enough skilled applicants for the positions that are available. Which brings us to an important question: What types of jobs are out there and at what levels are most companies hiring?
"Although the market seems active on all levels, there are a lot of jobs and not enough candidates for lower level candidates who have about two to four years of experience," says Lamb.
Over the years companies have come to expect more from their purchasing departments, so employers seek a high level of experience and skill for whatever position they are trying to fill. "The main areas that we are seeing a lot of activity in is the middle to upper levels. Companies want experience and someone who can come in and implement projects," says Thompson.
Academic credentials that employers look for in their purchasing hires have become more stringent in recent years. Lamb explains: "A four-year degree is required and an MBA is highly preferred. A degree in engineering or a technical field also is sought after."
Purchasing jobs more important
In the past, purchasing jobs were categorized by price buying and beating up suppliers. But things have changed. The buzz phrase among purchasing managers today is supply chain management. "Managers are looking for people who are strategically focused," says Lamb.
"I'm finding that purchasing is playing a larger role in buying services for companies and developing blanket contracts for services," says Thompson. "Today purchasing departments are bringing a greater level of professionalism to companies that we haven't seen before."
Says Lamb, "There was a time when purchasing departments lived in the basement. But today management has recognized the value of the purchasing function and the effect it has on the bottom line."
Hot spots
In today's flourishing market, many areas of the country are in very good positions to make new hires. "The Midwest and the Southeast are especially hot right now," says Lamb. "In the past six months the Northeast has come into its own--there are good positions with strong companies and not just buyer jobs," says Lamb.
"The Midwest and the Northeast are both doing well," says Thomson.
As for activity in various industries, hiring professionals report all are doing well. "I'm seeing a lot of activity in the electronics, telecommunication, chemical, and consumer goods areas," says Thomson.
"All segments of the industry are active," says Lamb.
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