Materials & Purchasing Controller

We are working with a well-established manufacturing business who are looking to recruit an experienced Materials Controller / Stock & Purchasing Administrator to join their Production Control team.

This is an excellent opportunity for an organised, analytical and proactive individual with experience across materials planning, stock control, purchasing and supplier management. You will play a key role in ensuring the right materials and products are available at the right time to support production requirements, while maintaining accurate stock levels and strong supplier relationships.

The Role

As the Materials Controller / Stock & Purchasing Administrator, you will be responsible for:

• Monitoring material requirements, stock levels, usage and demand to ensure sufficient stock is available to support production schedules.
• Raising and managing purchase orders with suppliers and ensuring materials are brought in on schedule.
• Liaising with suppliers regarding delivery schedules, lead times and any supply issues.
• Tracking and expediting materials to ensure on-time delivery.
• Managing inventory levels and identifying opportunities to reduce excess stock.
• Reviewing pricing, investigating price increases and working with the buying team to achieve the best possible price.
• Sourcing new or alternative products, ensuring the required quality and commercial value are achieved.
• Maintaining accurate and up-to-date information within the ERP/MRP and stock management systems.
• Investigating and resolving stock discrepancies and supply issues.
• Working with suppliers and internal teams to identify and implement suitable solutions to problems.
• Producing reports and analysing material usage, stock trends and demand.
• Liaising closely with Production, Planning, Purchasing, Warehouse and other internal departments to provide an effective service.
• Supporting continuous improvement activities within the supply chain function.

About You

We are looking for someone who has:

• Previous experience in a Materials Controller, Materials Planner, Stock Controller, Purchasing Administrator, Production Planner or Supply Chain role, ideally within a manufacturing environment.
• A strong understanding of MRP/ERP and stock management systems.
• Excellent organisational and planning skills, with the ability to prioritise competing demands.
• Strong analytical and numerical abilities, with excellent attention to detail.
• Good IT skills and confidence using data and systems to analyse stock and material requirements.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
• Strong communication skills and the confidence to build effective relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
• Good problem-solving skills and the ability to use initiative when dealing with supply, stock or purchasing issues.
• The ability to work well under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• A proactive, flexible approach and the ability to manage both short- and longer-term priorities.
• A professional and courteous approach when dealing with stakeholders at all levels.
• The ability to work collaboratively as part of a wider team and support colleagues when required.

What's on Offer

This is an office-based position within a team environment, based in modern offices with an onsite subsidised canteen/restaurant.

The company offers excellent long-term career prospects, a great holiday structure and a comprehensive benefits package.