Episode Details

If you love diving into spec sheets, comparing suppliers, and building inventory systems, you might have reverse-engineered a career in procurement from first principles. This episode breaks down the distinct roles inside a purchasing organization — from procurement analyst to category manager to strategic sourcing specialist. We explore the three-tier model of strategic, tactical, and operational procurement, what a day in the life actually looks like, and how compensation ranges from $65K to well over $200K depending on role and seniority. Whether you’re the person who enjoys the “chef planning the menu” phase of research or the hands-on buying process, we map your skills to the right role. Plus, we explain why maintaining a home inventory system is the domestic version of professional materials planning.