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Unlock Opportunities in Maritime Procurement and Purchasing Roles

Purchasing staff are usually focused on technical procurement but may also have responsibility for bunker purchases. It is becoming more common, however, for companies to have dedicated Bunker Buyers (who may also be responsible for bunker hedging).

Department activities typically include sourcing and purchasing all consumables and spare parts for vessels, forecasting purchasing and bunkering needs, maintaining relationships with suppliers and negotiating contracts, bunker trading, hedging and derivatives.

At Spinnaker we are here to help with your next maritime Purchasing job role.

Example Job Descriptions

Purchasing Manager

A Purchasing Manager in a shipping company is responsible for sourcing and acquiring goods, services, and supplies needed for vessel operations and company activities. This includes negotiating contracts with suppliers, managing inventory, ensuring timely delivery of products, and maintaining cost efficiency. The Purchasing Manager also ensures compliance with industry regulations, coordinates with different departments, and works to optimise procurement processes, helping to support smooth vessel operations and overall business efficiency.

Example Job Titles

Bunker Purchasing Officer, Buyer, Chief Purchaser, Fleet Supply Manager, Fuel Procurement Manager, Group Procurement Director, Head of Purchasing, Purchasing Director, Purchasing Manager, Purchasing Officer, Procurement Executive, Senior Procurement Manager.

Where can I work in a purchasing position?

Most shipping companies employ people in purchasing positions, as purchasing is a critical function across various operations. These positions are usually found in companies that deal with vessel operations, fleet management, and logistical support.

Roles are found globally, but key locations include Singapore, Rotterdam (Netherlands), Shanghai (China) and Hong Kong.

Key Skills and Experience

  • Whilst there a no formal qualifications for purchasing roles, the following are important qualities displayed by those successful in these positions.

  • Negotiation, communication, and analytical abilities.

  • Understanding of supply chain processes, cost management, and regulatory compliance.

  • Attention to detail, time management and forward thinking.

Ready to search for your next career in Purchasing?

Get in touch 

To find out more about purchasing jobs, please get in touch with the team who specialise in these vacancies.

Liam Daly

Principal Recruitment Consultant

+44 (0)1702 481632

Ollie Mason

Principal Recruitment Consultant

+44 (0)1702 481631

David Tubb

Director, Recruitment

+44 (0)1702 481630

Megan provided a clear and precise overview of the job description, thoroughly explaining the company’s requirements and expectations. She took the time to understand the candidates’ needs and preferences, ensuring that all aspects were covered. Additionally, she outlined the next steps in the process, making it easy for everyone involved to know what to expect moving forward. Her attention to detail and commitment to effective communication greatly enhanced the overall experience.

Megan was a pleasure to work with. She was prompt and responsive, providing regular updates. Her communication was genuinely empathetic and sincere. The highlight of the experience was her honesty and transparency; even while on holiday, she maintained her regular check-ins. She is a true professional, dedicated to delivering high-quality results.

Ashwin Balachandar
Regional Head, Operations/Logistics/Procurement

Latest Purchasing Roles

Did you know?

The world’s busiest maritime trade route is between Asia and Europe, accounting for nearly 40% of global shipping traffic.

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