About Vanwise
At Vanwise, we are committed to delivering high-quality vehicles and outstanding customer experiences. To support this, we rely on efficient vehicle preparation, effective stock management, and robust cost control across our parts operation.
Our Parts Advisor plays a key role in ensuring that all vehicle preparation and workshop requirements are supported by the timely procurement, accurate control, and efficient management of parts and consumables.
Role Overview
The Parts Advisor is responsible for the sourcing, ordering, receipt, storage, and control of all parts required to support vehicle preparation, workshop operations, and aftersales activities. The role ensures parts are obtained at the best possible value, delivered within required timescales, and managed efficiently to minimise waste and maximise profitability.
The Parts Advisor will work closely with the preparation, workshop, and purchasing teams to ensure vehicle preparation schedules are maintained and operational downtime is minimised.
Key Responsibilities
Parts Ordering & Procurement
- Manage all parts ordering requirements for vehicle preparation and workshop operations.
- Source and procure parts at the best possible value whilst maintaining required quality standards.
- Obtain quotations and compare supplier pricing to ensure cost-effective purchasing decisions.
- Liaise with suppliers to secure timely delivery of parts and resolve any supply issues.
- Maintain strong working relationships with manufacturers, factors, and trade suppliers.
- Ensure urgent and vehicle-off-road requirements are prioritised appropriately.
- Monitor supplier performance and identify opportunities for improved service and cost savings.
Parts Stock Control
- Maintain accurate parts inventory records and stock levels.
- Receive, check, and book in all delivered parts, ensuring accuracy against purchase orders.
- Organise and maintain parts storage areas to ensure efficient stock management.
- Conduct regular stock checks and cycle counts to maintain inventory accuracy.
- Investigate and resolve stock discrepancies promptly.
- Ensure appropriate stock levels are maintained for commonly used preparation and workshop parts.
- Monitor obsolete and slow-moving stock and recommend actions to minimise losses.
Returns & Warranty Administration
- Process returns of unrequired, incorrect, damaged, or surplus parts in accordance with supplier and company procedures.
- Ensure all credits are received and reconciled accurately.
- Maintain accurate records of returned parts and outstanding supplier credits.
- Support warranty-related parts administration where required.
Cost Control & Operational Efficiency
- Support the business in controlling vehicle preparation and workshop-related parts costs.
- Identify opportunities to reduce procurement expenditure and improve supplier terms.
- Monitor parts usage and purchasing trends to improve efficiency and reduce waste.
- Work closely with preparation and workshop teams to ensure effective planning of parts requirements.
- Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within the parts operation.
Administration & Systems
- Maintain accurate purchase order, invoice, and stock records.
- Ensure all parts transactions are recorded accurately within company systems.
- Support month-end stock and purchasing reconciliation processes.
- Produce reports relating to stock levels, supplier performance, and purchasing activity as required.
- Ensure compliance with company procedures relating to purchasing and stock management.
Skills & Experience
Essential
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy in record keeping.
- Experience in automotive parts procurement and stock control.
- Strong organisational and administrative skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Good communication and negotiation skills.
- Strong IT and system input skills.
- Full UK driving licence.
Desirable
- Experience working within a dealership, vehicle preparation centre, or automotive aftersales environment.
- Familiarity with DMS, stock control, or purchasing systems.
- Knowledge of commercial vehicle parts and accessories.
- Experience managing supplier relationships and procurement activities.
Personal Attributes
- Methodical and detail-focused.
- Commercially aware with strong cost-control focus.
- Proactive and solution-driven.
- Strong sense of accountability and ownership.
- Team player with excellent communication skills.
- Committed to efficiency, accuracy, and continuous improvement.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- Parts availability maintained in line with operational requirements.
- Parts ordered and supplied within agreed timescales.
- Accurate stock records maintained with minimal discrepancies.
- Supplier credits and returns processed within agreed timeframes.
- Achievement of parts cost-saving targets and procurement efficiencies.
- Minimal obsolete or surplus stock holdings.
- High levels of internal customer satisfaction from workshop and preparation teams.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary.
- Opportunity to work in a growing and dynamic automotive business.
- Supportive team environment.
- Ongoing training and development.
- Career progression opportunities within Vanwise.
To apply, please submit your CV and a brief covering letter outlining your suitability for the role.
Pay: £28,000.00-£32,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Free parking
Work Location: In person