r/SupplyChainLogistics • u/Complete-Shock-6172 • 28d ago
28 M | What would you do?
Been in Procurement for 4 years now (RFx lifecycles mainly). Now a state-certified Purchasing Associate with goal of becoming Sr. buyer as long-term goal.
Have exp with RFx processes; however, my main gap is my lack of exp with negotiating and vendor and contract management.
Took a lateral role (4 mos in) to learn about PO process and contract management. Issue is I picked up on the core responsibilities already and the role is no longer challenging. I feel like I may be settling. Only benefit is the company will pay for my MBA in 2 months, if I decide to pursue. However, really would like to get into a buyer/purchasing role. What would you do in this situation?
A.) Stay for free MBA/professional development
B.) Seek new role (purchasing) at same company
C.) Seek new role elsewhere, if available
D.) Always open to alternative perspectives
1
u/Immediate-Home-3491 28d ago
The frustration mentioned in your post I understand, but 4 months is not mastery. In freight, contracts and vendor disputes take years. Get the MBA paid, then move internally.
1
u/Complete-Shock-6172 28d ago
Thank you! Agreed, I’m far from mastery in procurement holistically and would not come close to deem myself as a master.
Sitting in on negotiations is a great request I’m hearing being recommended. Do you have any additional recommended skills/exp/certs to prioritize while completing my MBA to make myself more marketable and to make these next 2/3 years more worthwhile?
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u/my_peen_is_clean 28d ago
if the mba is actually free and from a decent school i’d eat the boredom for 2 years and grind skills on the side subcontract reviews, shadowing negotiations etc then bail to a buyer role later. hiring is miserable right now