Supply chain issues are a headache, but landing a new job as a procurement manager doesn't have to be. We're here to help. With 300+ resume examples and writing guides, Resume.io can get you from loose ideas to finished application in a snap.
This resume guide, along with the corresponding procurement manager resume example will cover the following topics:
- What does a procurement manager do?
- How to write a procurement manager resume (tips and tricks)
- The best format for a procurement manager resume
- Advice on each section of your resume (summary, work history, education, skills)
- Professional resume layout and design hints.
What does a procurement manager do?
A procurement manager is a person who oversees the productivity of a company and works to procure goods and services in the most cost-effective and beneficial way. The role of a procurement manager involves overseeing processes, employee functions, and the way in which money is allocated and spent. The goal of a procurement manager is to ensure that the company is spending wisely, and that company improvements are made and prioritized when necessary. Procurement managers work closely with directors, project managers and other professionals to reach goals and increase profits and success.
For more writing resources, check out our related business and management resume examples including our product manager resume example, project manager resume sample and business development resume sample.
How to write a procurement manager resume
The very first step in writing your procurement manager resume is understanding what sections to include. Your CV should contain the following elements:
- The resume header
- The resume summary (aka profile or personal statement)
- The employment history section
- The resume skills section
- The education section
A procurement manager resume should showcase a candidate’s ability to procure goods and services in a cost-effective and forward-thinking way. Your resume should highlight your management skills, and your ability to oversee employees and operations. You should have a strong profile section that exhibits your greatest attributes and accomplishments in a clear and concise way. Remember to be specific and call attention to real job accomplishments, duties, and skills. The more specific you are, the more knowledgeable you appear to be. We always recommend taking the time to review the job description at least twice, and include information found there in your resume. A strong procurement manager resume should showcase your ability to evaluate production and functioning processes, and identify areas that need improvement. Be sure to note your problem-solving abilities, as well as your ability to negotiate with vendors and business partners.
Choosing the best resume format for a procurement manager
Since procurement managers generally need to show previous experience to land the role, the reverse chronological resume format is the way to go. This structure focuses on an employment history section where candidates can list their relevant positions and quantifiable data to show their impact. It's also the preferred format of hiring managers and the resume scanners built into most online application portals.
Applicant Tracking Systems, or ATS, are a common feature of modern hiring software. These algorithms scan resumes for keywords and rank them against the other applicants. Only the top-scoring are passed to the hiring manager for review. Here are some easy steps to take to avoid being filtered out:
- Read the job description closely and take note of any "keywords" – duties and skills emphasized by the employer.
- Place these words throughout your resume in the appropriate sections
- Use common chapter titles like "Education" or "Summary" to make your resume more scanner-friendly.
Resume summary example
The first 3-5 sentences at the top of the page make up your resume summary. While this section isn't required, it's a smart idea to use it to highlight your biggest accomplishments and attributes. This is also the one place you'll be able to speak directly to the hiring manager and point out your strongest selling points. A procurement manager is a strong leader with the ability to oversee processes and problem-solve when necessary. Check out our adaptable resume sample summary below.
Effective and forward-thinking procurement manager, bringing forth valuable industry experience, and the skills to achieve real results. Adept in developing key relationships with strategic partners, and committed to working to ensure a company continually moves in the right direction. Bringing forth the ability to effectively oversee all processes related to the advantageous procurement of goods and services.
Employment history sample
To prove your competence as a procurement manager, you'll need to list related work experience in your employment history section. Include the previous employer's name, the job title, dates worked and location. Within the bullet points, make sure to quantify your achievements with numbers, statistics and other concrete information that shows how you affected your employer's bottom line. Remember to use powerful action verbs and mention job specific duties. See our resume sample below.
- Managed all processes related to the planning and buying of goods and services.
- Worked to ensure budgets were being used wisely, and strategies were focused well.
- Identified areas needing improvement and offered real solutions.
- Achieved cost-effective procurement outcomes by establishing strong relationships with vendors and partners, and negotiating well.
CV skills example
The skills section can actually be one of the trickiest parts of your CV to master. Other CV sections are perfect for listing longer abilities, but the bullet point format here means you'll have to focus on your more concise attributes. This is the place to highlight any areas of expertise or specialized knowledge that you don't want your employer to miss. Don't forget to mention job-specific information. See our resume skills example below.
- Business Development Strategies
- Effective Management Skills
- Strong Communication Skills
- Problem Solving Skills
- Accounting Skills
- Market Research Skills
Procurement manager resume education example
The education section is the place to list all degrees and certifications that qualify you for the role, especially ones that the employer is looking for. Any achievements or awards from your education can also be noted here as well. If you hold a degree higher than a bachelor's degree, you may leave out your high school. Your GPA is only necessary if you are a recent graduate and it is a 3.0 or higher. Check out the education section from our resume example below.
- 2005-2009 Iona College, Bachelor of Business Administration New Rochelle, NY
- 2001- 2005 Ursuline Academy, High School Diploma New Rochelle, NY
Resume layout and design
By placing some effort into your resume layout and design, you can quickly stand out among candidates who didn't think appearance mattered – even if they are technically more experienced. While the layout of a procurement manager resume doesn't need to be overly complex, a neutral or professional color scheme coupled with smart organization can make a hiring manager see what a polished candidate you are. Make sure to keep a balance of white space to text and stick with the same font styles and sizes throughout the resume. A professionally-designed resume template can make this task much quicker.
Key takeaways for a procurement manager resume
- The summary is a great place to speak directly to the hiring manager and add a touch of personality to your resume.
- Don't forget to add keywords throughout the resume to increase your chances of beating the ATS.
- Check out our adaptable procurement manager resume sample for more ideas on creating a great page design.
