Purchasing and Materials Controller

Purchasing and Materials Controller

Days

£40-45,000

This role requires someone who can be creative and proactive in managing the challenges of sourcing and delivering materials for low-volume runs, as opposed to high-volume, mass production environments. You will work closely with both internal teams and external suppliers to ensure materials are available on time and meet the specific needs of each project.

Key Responsibilities:

* Identify and source high-quality materials that align with the specific needs of low-volume, bespoke sheet metalwork projects, ensuring they meet project specifications and customer requirements.
* Negotiate with suppliers to secure favorable terms, competitive pricing, and timely deliveries, focusing on low-volume, custom production rather than mass production setups.
* Manage relationships with specialised suppliers to ensure the consistent availability of niche materials required for custom and prototype work.
* Inventory Management:
* Maintain effective inventory control to ensure materials are available without overstocking or tying up excess capital, considering the low-volume nature of the production.
* Implement systems to track material usage and reorder levels, minimising waste and ensuring critical materials are always on hand when required by production.
* Coordinate with production teams to assess and forecast material needs for upcoming projects.
* Production Support and Coordination:
* Work closely with the production team to understand project requirements, ensuring that the correct materials are available for each project stage.
* Monitor production schedules and ensure materials are delivered on time to avoid production delays, adapting to the dynamic needs of low-volume runs and custom builds.
* Address any last-minute material shortages, resolving issues quickly to maintain production flow.
* Supplier and Vendor Management:
* Establish and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and vendors, ensuring clear communication regarding material specifications, delivery schedules, and quality standards.
* Evaluate supplier performance regularly to ensure consistency in quality, reliability, and service.
* Continuously seek out new suppliers and sources of materials to improve cost-effectiveness and quality for low-volume projects.
* Cost Control and Budget Management:
* Ensure that all purchasingactivities are completed within the budget, balancing cost-effectiveness with the high-quality standards required for low-volume, customised production.
* Track and report on material costs and any deviations from the budget, identifying cost-saving opportunities where appropriate.
* Work with management to implement processes that optimise material procurement and reduce unnecessary spending.
* Quality Control:
* Ensure materials received meet the required quality standards and specifications for each project.
* Work closely with the quality control team to address any material-related issues, ensuring that the final product meets client expectations.
* Oversee material inspections and take corrective actions for any defects or discrepancies in materials.
* Process Improvement:
* Continuously review and improve material procurement and inventory control processes, developing strategies to enhance efficiency, reduce lead times, and minimise waste.
* Contribute ideas to improve the overall material flow, supplier relationships, and the management of low-volume production schedules.

Key Requirements:

* Experience: Proven experience in purchasing, materials control, or supply chain management, specifically in low-volume manufacturing, custom fabrication, or prototype work within the sheet metalworking industry.
* Supply Chain Knowledge: In-depth understanding of supply chain management and the specific challenges associated with low-volume production, including procurement, lead times, and material management for custom projects.
* Problem-Solving: Ability to think creatively and proactively to source materials and solve problems related to inventory, procurement, and production challenges.
* Attention to Detail: Strong organisational skills and attention to detail, particularly in managing materials for low-volume, custom production.
* Communication: Excellent communication skills to collaborate effectively with internal teams, suppliers, and external stakeholders.
* Computer Skills: Proficiency in using inventory management software (Sage), internal system, and Microsoft Office applications.
* Cost Management: Experience working with budgets and cost control, especially within a low-volume production environment where the ability to manage resources efficiently is key.

Ideal Candidate:

* A hands-on professional who understands the complexities of low-volume, high-precision production and the supply chain challenges that come with it.
* Someone who is resourceful, adaptable, and able to manage multiple tasks simultaneously while maintaining focus on quality and deadlines.
* A proactive problem solver with experience in sourcing materials for custom, low-volume production and the ability to develop and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and production teams.