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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:
- Assist in managing the end-to-end purchasing process, including sourcing, negotiating, and ordering materials and services.
- Monitor inventory levels and collaborate with production planning teams to ensure material availability and avoid downtime.
- Evaluate supplier performance and participate in vendor selection, development, and management.
- Work with internal departments (e.g., production, quality, finance) to align procurement activities with operational goals.
- Track orders and resolve any issues related to delivery delays, quality concerns, or discrepancies.
- Support cost reduction initiatives while maintaining product quality and service levels.
- Maintain accurate records and purchasing documentation using ERP systems.
- Ensure compliance with company policies and industry regulations.
- Prepare reports and analytics on purchasing metrics and supplier performance.
- Provide support to the Purchasing Manager on strategic sourcing projects and continuous improvement initiatives.
Key Requirements:
- Proven experience in a procurement or supply chain role, ideally within a manufacturing environment.
- Strong negotiation and communication skills.
- Solid understanding of purchasing procedures and supply chain principles.
- Experience using ERP/MRP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, or similar).
- Excellent organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-moving environment.
- Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to work collaboratively in a team and liaise confidently with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel.
Desirable:
- CIPS qualification or working towards it.
- Knowledge of lean manufacturing or just-in-time (JIT) processes.
What We Offer:
- Competitive salary based on experience
- Opportunities for growth and professional development
- A collaborative and supportive working culture
- 25 days holiday + bank holidays
- Company pension scheme
