Farm products buyer and purchasing agent
Also known as
Work environment
- Usually work regular business hours but may work extra hours
- Usually work in offices and farms, and may travel nationally and internationally
- May work in all weather conditions
- Need to be organised, accurate and responsible
Salary information
Typical tasks
- Find and buy farm products for businesses
- Research and choose new suppliers
- Discuss prices and contracts with suppliers
- Order goods and services for the farm
- Keep track of payments and deliveries
- Manage logistics and business operations
- Analyse market trends and adjust strategies
- Maintain accurate data in systems
- Communicate with government agencies
- Work with staff to define needs
Outlook
The agricultural supply chain sector is adapting to changing global markets, sustainability expectations and advances in technology. In New Zealand, strong links to food and fibre exports continue to influence purchasing decisions, while digital tracking systems and data analytics are improving supply chain visibility. Globally, organisations are placing greater emphasis on resilient supply chains, environmental performance and efficient sourcing practices.
What employers and industry want in graduates
- Strong negotiation and relationship-building skills
- Confidence analysing data and market information
- Good understanding of agricultural products and supply chains
- Planning and organisational skills
- Problem-solving and decision-making ability
- Clear communication with suppliers and stakeholders
AUT programmes
The above is a suggestion only and a starting point. You may need to meet other criteria or take additional steps to work in this career.
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This data is sourced from the Tertiary Education Commission through the Tahatū Career Navigator website (www.tahtu.govt.nz) and used under the CC BY 4.0 licence. Some of the information has been modified by AUT. TEC has not approved, endorsed or tested these modifications. TEC will not be held accountable for any errors within this data.