Purchasing Assistant

Square Peg Associates are delighted to be working in partnership with a successful and well-established manufacturing business based in Accrington, who are looking to recruit a Procurement Assistant.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Purchasing or Procurement professional to join a busy, high-volume manufacturing environment and play a key role in ensuring the business has the right parts, components and materials available when required.

Working closely with the Stock & Inventory, Production and Goods-In teams, you will take responsibility for tasks within planning, forecasting and purchasing requirements, while building strong supplier relationships and ensuring suppliers deliver against agreed expectations.

The Role

Key responsibilities will include:

·       Supporting the day-to-day functions of a busy, high-volume Procurement and Supply Chain ordering division.

·       Planning, scheduling and forecasting parts, components and goods to meet production requirements and customer demand.

·       Monitoring purchase orders and supplier lead times to ensure materials are available when required.

·       Placing purchase orders and managing them through to receipt, ensuring delivery dates and requirements are met.

·       Building and maintaining strong, professional relationships with suppliers and maximising supplier performance.

·       Monitoring supplier service levels and undertaking appropriate due diligence to ensure preferred suppliers continue to meet business expectations.

·       Working closely with Goods-In, Stock & Inventory and Production teams to ensure the smooth and timely flow of materials into the business.

·       Obtaining the appropriate business approval and allocating Purchase Order Numbers for purchases.

·       Monitoring outstanding orders and proactively resolving any issues relating to supply, lead times or delivery.

·       Maintaining accurate purchasing information and reports on the relevant systems.

·       Communicating effectively with internal departments, suppliers and key external partners.

About You

The successful candidate will have a minimum of two year’s experience of Procurement or Purchasing, who is commercially aware, organised and confident when dealing with suppliers and internal stakeholders.

·       2–4 years' experience within a Procurement, Purchasing, Supply Chain environment.

·       Understanding of supply requirements, lead times, stock availability and purchasing processes.

·       Excellent supplier relationship management skills, with the ability to build productive and long-term partnerships.

·       Strong negotiation skills and a commercial approach to supplier management.

·       Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the confidence to communicate at all levels.

·       Strong organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.

·       Excellent attention to detail, analytical and problem-solving abilities.

·       A proactive approach, with the ability to work independently while also contributing positively to a wider team.

·       Solid IT skills, including Microsoft Office; advanced Excel knowledge would be advantageous.

What’s on Offer?

The company offers a highly competitive salary, together with an attractive benefits package and excellent long-term career and progression opportunities.