Purchasing ManagerJob Summary
We are seeking an experienced, organised, and detail-oriented Purchasing Manager to oversee procurement and stock management activities across our pharmacy operations. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing supplier and wholesaler relationships, ensuring cost-effective purchasing of medicines and pharmacy products, maintaining stock availability, and supporting efficient day-to-day pharmacy operations.
This role plays a critical part in ensuring appropriate stock levels are maintained, minimising medicine shortages, reducing waste, improving supply chain efficiency, and optimising purchasing decisions to maximise profitability and service delivery across the organisation.
Key Duties & Responsibilities
- Develop and implement purchasing strategies aligned with organisational objectives and business growth plans.
- Manage relationships with pharmaceutical wholesalers, suppliers, manufacturers, and service providers to secure competitive pricing and favourable commercial terms.
- Negotiate supplier agreements, rebates, discounts, and purchasing contracts to maximise cost efficiencies.
- Monitor medicine pricing, market trends, supply shortages, and product availability to support informed purchasing decisions.
- Utilise pharmacy management systems and procurement software to process purchase orders and maintain accurate stock records.
- Coordinate ordering schedules and logistics to ensure timely supply of medicines, consumables, and pharmacy products.
- Work closely with pharmacy managers and operational teams to forecast demand and maintain appropriate stock levels.
- Monitor stock levels to reduce out-of-stock situations, overstocking, expired stock, and unnecessary wastage.
- Analyse purchasing trends and supplier performance to identify opportunities for cost savings and operational improvements.
- Ensure compliance with all relevant pharmaceutical regulations, controlled drug requirements, NHS standards, and GPhC guidance.
- Produce and maintain reports relating to purchasing activity, stock levels, supplier performance, and cost-saving initiatives.
- Support implementation of new systems, products, and supply chain improvements across pharmacy sites.
Skills Required
- Strong negotiation and supplier relationship management skills.
- Excellent organisational and time management abilities.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret purchasing and stock data.
- High level of attention to detail and accuracy.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to prioritise workload and manage multiple tasks effectively.
- Strong commercial awareness and cost-management mindset.
- Competent IT skills including inventory systems, procurement software, and Microsoft Office applications.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
Qualifications
Essential:
- GCSEs (or equivalent) including English and Mathematics.
- Relevant qualification in Procurement, Supply Chain Management, Business Management, Pharmacy Services, or a related field; or equivalent practical experience.
Desirable:
- Professional procurement qualification (e.g. CIPS) or willingness to work towards one.
- Pharmacy-related qualification or knowledge of pharmacy operations.
Experience Requirements
Essential:
- Proven experience in purchasing, procurement, stock management, or supply chain management.
- Experience working within a pharmacy, healthcare, pharmaceutical, or similar regulated environment.
- Experience managing supplier relationships and negotiating commercial agreements.
- Experience using inventory management systems, pharmacy systems, or ERP platforms.
- Demonstrated experience delivering cost-saving initiatives and improving purchasing efficiency.
Desirable:
- Experience within community pharmacy operations.
- Knowledge of pharmaceutical supply chains and wholesaler networks.
- Understanding of NHS pharmacy services and regulatory requirements.
Benefits
- Opportunity for career progression within a growing pharmacy organisation.
- Work within a dynamic and fast-paced healthcare environment.
- Contribute directly to improving operational efficiency and patient service delivery.
- Ongoing training and professional development opportunities.
Work Location: In person
Pay: £33,000.00-£39,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
