Purchasing management is a critical function within any organization that purchases materials, goods and services.  Effective purchasing management involves the coordination of purchasing activities with other departments within the company to ensure that the company is meeting its objectives in an efficient and cost-effective manner. The purchasing manager is responsible for developing and implementing purchasing policies and procedures, negotiating contracts with suppliers, and managing supplier relationships.  In addition, the purchasing manager must have a strong understanding of the market conditions in order to make recommendations on pricing, quality, delivery schedules, and other factors that can impact the company’s bottom line. By working closely with other departments within the organization, the purchasing manager can ensure that the company is able to obtain the materials and services it needs in a timely and efficient manner.