Full time, office based in Portsmouth, PO3 5FN.
Mon - Fri 08:30 - 17:00, 1 hour lunch (37.5 hours per week).
Purchasing Assistant Job Description
As a Purchasing Assistant, you will play a key role in ensuring the efficient and timely supply of goods and services that support business operations. You will maintain accurate and up-to-date information within the back-office system to guarantee a clear audit trail. Acting as a vital link between vendors and internal departments, you will take ownership of essential procurement tasks with a strong emphasis on precision, compliance, and on-time delivery.
Order Processing:
o Accurately process supplier orders, including special or non-stock items.
o Ensure all order information is correct, clear and promptly entered into the system.
o Communicate with the Customer Experience team and Business Development Managers with order updates and any issues.
o Support the Customer Experience team with pricing / quoting.
o Cross departmental collaboration, working closely with colleagues around the business to drive customer experience.
o Liaise with suppliers for best prices, stock enquiries and lead times.
o General purchasing administrative tasks.
o Manage back orders and discontinued products, offering alternatives where applicable.
o Respond to emails in a timely fashion, with a focus on going the extra mile.
o Liaise with suppliers directly regards PODS, shortages, picking errors and returns for tail end management products.
o Take accountability for enquiries that come our way, even if they fall outside our typical scope.
o Provide financial evidence for corporate card purchases and take accountability for credit card spend.
o Manage and investigate supplier invoice queries, ensuring accurate and timely resolutions.
o Maintain a helpful, proactive and positive attitude, ensuring satisfaction for internal and external customers remains the top priority.
o Able to provide cover for other branches during Purchasing team absences, demonstrating a strong team-player mindset as a priority.
Knowledge & Skills:
· Previous experience in a purchasing role essential.
· Strong verbal and written communication skills.
· High attention to detail and accuracy.
· Ability to manage competing priorities efficiently.
· Experience in fast-paced office environments.
· Strong problem solving and ability to investigate queries.
· Proficient in Microsoft Office.
· Knowledge of the stationery industry or similar product-based environment is an advantage.
About You:
· Takes pride in delivering excellent service.
· Friendly and professional manner.
· Proactive, team player and adaptable.
· Calm under pressure and solution focused.
· Empathetic, patient and customer-focused.
· Strong multitasking abilities.
· Positive attitude and eager to learn new skills.
· Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships (internal and external).
We are an equal opportunities employer and are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace. We do not discriminate on the basis of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. All employment decisions are made based on merit, qualifications, and business needs, in accordance with the Equality Act 2010.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Cycle to work scheme
- Life insurance
- On-site parking
- Referral programme
- Sick pay
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Portsmouth PO3 5FN: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Experience:
- Purchasing: 4 years (required)
Language:
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
