Requirements
For the training to become a Specialist Purchaser, a completed commercial or administrative Vocational Training (Ausbildung) as well as professional experience in the respective field is usually required. The exact duration of professional experience varies depending on the Specialist Purchaser program, but typically lasts between one to three years.
Structure of the Specialist Purchaser Training
The training to become a Specialist Purchaser is specialized and focuses on certain commercial areas of responsibility. It consists of the following components:
- Subject-specific deepening: Providing in-depth knowledge in the respective subject area (e.g., Purchasing, Human Resources, Marketing)
- Legal and economic basics: Conveying legal framework conditions and business administration skills
- Management and organization: Management techniques and personnel leadership
Fields of Expertise of the Specialist Purchaser
There are various fields of expertise within the Specialist Purchaser training, which are specialized in different commercial functional areas. The most common Specialist Purchaser titles include:
- Specialist Purchaser for Purchasing and Logistics
- Specialist Purchaser for Marketing
- Specialist Purchaser for Human Resources
- Specialist Purchaser for Foreign Trade
- Specialist Purchaser for Office and Project Organization
Career Prospects
With the qualification as a Specialist Purchaser, a variety of professional opportunities open up in specialized commercial functional areas. Specialists in purchasing often take on leading positions in Human Resources, Purchasing, Logistics, or Marketing. They are responsible for optimizing processes, conducting negotiations, and managing operational workflows.
Specialist Purchaser Examination
The examination for the Specialist Purchaser is usually conducted by the Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK). It consists of written and oral exams covering subject-specific knowledge as well as knowledge in business administration and law.
Further Training Opportunities
After qualifying as a Specialist Purchaser, there are opportunities for further training, for example, through the Business Economist (IHK) or a degree in Business Administration, in order to achieve further management positions.
Support and Financing
The training to become a Specialist Purchaser can be financed through the Advancement BAföG. This support consists of a grant and a low-interest loan, which is partially waived after successful completion of the examination.