Purchasing
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.
Latest Purchasing Roles
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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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I am pleased to endorse the work of Teresa Peacock and Spinnaker, who over the past 18 months have provided invaluable support to our major UK maritime based recruitment programme. Teresa and her team at Spinnaker have been true partners, providing support and counsel going well beyond our agreed mandate. When we have had challenges Teresa has helped develop alternative approaches and solutions and when issues have arisen, as they inevitably do, we have been able to hold a frank and open dialogue to address them. Teresa and her team have also demonstrated a sustained level of energy and engagement over an extended period and delivered tangible results, without ever becoming aggressive or pushy, something we have particularly valued. We look forward to continuing to work together in the future.