Assistant Purchasing Manager

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Assistant Purchasing Manager to join our dynamic team within a fast-paced manufacturing facility. This role supports the Purchasing Manager in overseeing procurement operations, ensuring timely supply of materials, maintaining cost-effectiveness, and building strong supplier relationships to support production needs.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Assist in managing the end-to-end purchasing process, including sourcing, negotiating, and ordering materials and services.
2. Monitor inventory levels and collaborate with production planning teams to ensure material availability and avoid downtime.
3. Evaluate supplier performance and participate in vendor selection, development, and management.
4. Work with internal departments (e.g., production, quality, finance) to align procurement activities with operational goals.
5. Track orders and resolve any issues related to delivery delays, quality concerns, or discrepancies.
6. Support cost reduction initiatives while maintaining product quality and service levels.
7. Maintain accurate records and purchasing documentation using ERP systems.
8. Ensure compliance with company policies and industry regulations.
9. Prepare reports and analytics on purchasing metrics and supplier performance.
10. Provide support to the Purchasing Manager on strategic sourcing projects and continuous improvement initiatives.

Key Requirements:

1. Proven experience in a procurement or supply chain role, ideally within a manufacturing environment.
2. Strong negotiation and communication skills.
3. Solid understanding of purchasing procedures and supply chain principles.
4. Experience using ERP/MRP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, or similar).
5. Excellent organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-moving environment.
6. Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
7. Ability to work collaboratively in a team and liaise confidently with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
8. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel.

Desirable:

1. CIPS qualification or working towards it.
2. Knowledge of lean manufacturing or just-in-time (JIT) processes.

What We Offer:

1. Competitive salary based on experience.
2. Opportunities for growth and professional development.
3. A collaborative and supportive working culture.
4. 25 days holiday + bank holidays.
5. Company pension scheme.