Purchasing manager Salary UK
Purchasing managers and directors in the UK earn a median salary of £56,779 a year (ONS ASHE 2025, gross pay, all employee jobs), and the middle half earn between £41,543 and £81,417. The figures cover the ONS occupation group “Purchasing managers and directors” (SOC 1134).
Gross pay, before deductions. See take-home pay on £57,000 after tax and National Insurance →
For purchasing managers and directors, £58,005 is the typical (median) pay. That is well above the UK full-time median of £39,039 — +49% versus the national average. Experienced purchasing managers and directors (top 25%) earn over £81,417.
About this role
Purchasing managers and directors lead procurement and supply chain strategy, managing supplier relationships, negotiating contracts and ensuring organisations achieve value for money while maintaining quality and supply continuity.
Key responsibilities
- Developing and implementing procurement strategy
- Negotiating contracts and managing supplier relationships
- Ensuring compliance with procurement regulations and policies
- Managing purchasing teams and budgets
- Analysing spend data and identifying cost reduction opportunities
Qualifications and entry routes
Typically requires a degree in business, supply chain management or a related field. CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply) qualification is the professional standard.
Career outlook
Growing demand driven by supply chain disruption risks, sustainability requirements and the need for strategic procurement capabilities.
Key skills
Common industries
- Manufacturing
- Public sector
- Retail
- Construction
- Healthcare
Data coverage
Salary Range (2025)
Estimated Career Progression
Based on salary percentile distribution for this occupation
Entry Level
£29,877
0-2 years
Mid Level
£41,543
3-7 years
Senior
£81,417
8-15 years
Potential career growth: ▲ +173% from entry to leadership
Salary Trend (2015-2025)
Gender Pay Comparison (2025)
Gender pay gap: 14.8%
Full-time vs All Employees (2025)
Full-time premium: +£1,226
Purchasing manager salary: common questions
How much do purchasing managers and directors earn in the UK?
Is £58,005 a good salary in the UK?
What is the starting salary for purchasing managers and directors?
Have purchasing managers and directors salaries kept up with inflation?
Is there a gender pay gap for purchasing managers and directors?
Figures: ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings, gross annual pay. UK full-time median £39,039 (2025). How the figures are built: salary data methodology.