Buyer (NOC 6233)

Main duties:

• Purchase merchandise for sale;
• Review the requirements of the establishment and determine the quantity and type of merchandise to be purchased;
• Study and analyze market reports, trade periodicals, sales promotion materials, and visit trade shows, showrooms, factories, etc.;
• Select the merchandise that best meets the establishment’s requirements;
• Meet suppliers and negotiate prices, discounts, credit terms and transportation arrangements;
• Oversee the distribution of merchandise to outlets and maintain adequate stock levels;
• Establish and maintain contacts with suppliers;
• Monitor the competition.

Employment requirements:

Various possibilities, depending on the work environment:

• A secondary school diploma
  or
• A Diploma of College Studies (DEC) in administration – marketing or management option
  or
• A university diploma in business administration or marketing.
• Employers generally require previous experience.

Examples of occupations in the field:

• Chief buyer
• Assistant buyer
• Purchasing clerk
• Purchasing and inventory clerk

Buyers may specialize in a particular merchandise line.