Commodity Manager Job Description

Commodity managers fall into the same category as purchasing managers. They manage procurement agents, buyers and purchasing agents, or sometimes perform those jobs as part of their job description. The commodity manager is responsible for running the supply chain and every task that goes along with the chain effectively. This includes buying, selling and coordinating anything that has to do with .

The job of a commodity manager varies according to the nature of the business that he is employed to manage. For each type of commodity, the manager has to acquire it and sell it either in its original form or in the form of which it is a part. To accomplish these tasks, he must locate firms that can supply the desired commodities in the quantities that he specifies. His purchases may range from oil and gas to food, depending on the uses that are required by his organization.The manager must have a good understanding of the commodities markets so he can know when to buy enough to avoid shortages and how to find the best prices. He may decide to buy a large quantity and hold it if space is available. Another part of his job is to ensure that adequate space for holding the materials is available until such time as they are needed for production.The quantity of commodity purchased must conform to strict estimating methods so that the organization does not run short. On the other end of the process, he must find a way to avoid having surpluses. He must locate and negotiate with other organizations that may have a need for the commodities that he finds in excess of his requirements.If his organization manufactures a product, then the raw materials that go into the product must arrive as ordered, so they can meet a schedule and fill inventories. The coordination of the many activities that go into commodity management require the manager to work with buyers, stockers, inventory accountants, and a number of others who are responsible for making sure that the organization does make a profit and does not experience a loss.The job of a commodities manager is a complex one that requires knowledge of the markets and an exceptional ability to manage subordinate workers. He needs excellent communication and bargaining skills to obtain the best supplies at competitive prices for his organization.