Purchasers seize career opportunities during downturn

Buyers are trying to advance their long-term careers by taking on more professional responsibility as challenges rise in the downturn, the latest SM100 poll in the UK has found.

Of the survey respondents, 67 per cent said they were trying to develop their future prospects by adding to their duties.

Of those who were not, many said they were already under too much pressure to consider doing more. "At the moment it's difficult to manage the existing challenges we have without trying to take on extra responsibilities," wrote one.

Another replied: "No - in fact, I am having to justify my position, despite saving tens of thousands of pounds."

A spotlight on procurement as a function has been frequently cited as a beneficial spin-off of the downturn. The poll sought to uncover if there were opportunities for professionals at a personal level and if workers were exploiting them.

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