Job Summary
We are seeking an experienced and proactive Purchasing Lead to oversee procurement activities within our organisation. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing supplier relationships, negotiating favourable terms, and ensuring the timely acquisition of goods and services essential to our operations. This role requires a strategic thinker with strong organisational skills, capable of optimising supply chain processes whilst maintaining cost efficiency. The Purchasing Lead will play a pivotal role in supporting our organisational growth and operational excellence.
Job Specification
· Responsible for the ordering of materials, supplies, and equipment
· Follow through with vendors on shipment and delivery
· Advise staff as to appropriate choices of standard items to be purchased for office and for use in the manufacturing process
· Select vendors, place orders, and arrange selected service contracts
· Follow up on orders to ensure that materials are shipped and delivered on promised dates
· Maintain records and follow up files of purchases, shipments, and related matters
· Maintain files of descriptions and suppliers.
· Tender products out on a regular basis to ensure competitive pricing
· Look into alternative products and sources of supply to make savings and/or improve supply chain
· Inspect products received for quality and quantity to ensure adherence to specifications
· Run the sage 200 MRP and MPS to determine the quantities to order and what needs to be manufactured to have adequate stock for demand
· Liaise with the Production Manager in all aspect of material supply
· Process purchase orders from the manufacturing system
· Despatching orders to subcontractors and ensuring the items are received back
· Liaise with suppliers regarding service levels/product returns
· Ensure customs compliance when sourcing outside of the UK
· Run and maintain the supplier portal, ensure suppliers compliance with Mace standards
· Keep the workspace clean and tidy and free of any hazards
· Always operate in a safe manner, which conforms with health and safety practices
· Meet agreed goals and objectives in a timely manner
· Arrive to work and other work related functions on time as scheduled
· Interact with other team members and other departments in a professional manner
· Update CRM with NCR information
· Take ownership of carbon footprint data recording
Person Specification
Essential Qualifications
· GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics.
· Qualification in Purchasing, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
· Good understanding of purchasing and inventory management processes.
Essential Experience
· Previous experience in a purchasing, procurement, supply chain, or materials planning role within a manufacturing environment.
· Experience of raising and processing purchase orders.
· Experience of supplier management and vendor liaison.
· Experience of maintaining accurate purchasing and stock records.
· Experience of monitoring supplier performance, deliveries, and service levels.
· Experience of working with MRP/MPS systems and inventory management software.
· Experience using ERP systems, preferably Sage 200 or similar manufacturing software.
Essential Knowledge and Skills
· Strong understanding of procurement and supply chain principles.
· Knowledge of inventory control and material planning processes.
· Understanding of customs and import compliance requirements when sourcing internationally.
· Ability to analyse stock requirements and forecast purchasing needs.
· Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.
· Excellent organisational and administrative skills.
· High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
· Competent in Microsoft Office applications.
· Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
· Strong written and verbal communication skills.
· Ability to investigate alternative suppliers and identify cost-saving opportunities.
· Ability to maintain accurate records and documentation.
Personal Attributes
· Proactive and self-motivated.
· Reliable and dependable with excellent timekeeping.
· Strong problem-solving skills.
· Professional and courteous in dealings with colleagues, suppliers, and customers.
· Team player with the ability to build positive working relationships.
· Flexible and adaptable to changing business needs.
· Committed to continuous improvement and achieving business objectives.
· Demonstrates a strong commitment to health, safety, and quality standards.
· Able to work independently with minimal supervision.
Pay: From £35,000.00 per year
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Corby NN17 4JN: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (preferred)
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (preferred)
Work Location: In person
