Procurement Manager

Procurement Manager interview questions

High-quality Procurement Manager candidates are experienced and qualified (think: finance or economics) and are aces at collecting data, comparing prices and performing market analysis. They are able to make decisions fast and can ‘read’ the market to make cost-reducing suggestions. 

Top tip: Diversity is key for a thriving workplace. Keep an eye out for management and exec-level candidates from varying backgrounds and aim to eliminate bias from your hiring process.

Role-specific interview questions

• Describe the purchasing process step-by-step.
• What are the most crucial criteria to consider when choosing suppliers?
• What is risk management?
• Are you familiar with warehouse safety regulations?
• What is a Qualified Products List (QPL)?
• Which are the key procurement metrics?
• How do you keep supplies records?

Behavioral interview questions

• Have you ever dealt with an underperforming buyer? What happened?
• Describe a situation where you achieved an awesome discount.
• How do you resolve supplier disagreements?
• Have you ever cancelled a vendor contract? What happened?
• How do you grow an A+ network of industry pros?

Problem solving interview questions

• What suppliers and third-party management tech do you have experience with?
• What tools do you use to perform market analysis?
• Why would you look for a new supplier?
• How do you make sure deliveries arrive on time?
• How would you deal with a late delivery?
• What would you do if a department wanted to order equipment over-budget?
• How do you evaluate product quality? What would you do if you received a defective product?