Junior Buyer

Overview

EP Group is a global packaging manufacturer with production facilities across Europe and South East Asia. We specialise in a range of paper and plastic based packaging products, selling to many of the world’s largest retailers including Marks & Spencer, Amazon and McDonalds. We have an opportunity for a Junior Buyer to join our purchasing team in our Birmingham Head Office.

Responsibilities

• Assist Category Managers with day-to-day enquiries for an assigned category.
• Provide accurate information to other departments in a timely manner, while supporting on projects or reporting that arises.
• Research the market and supply base; keep all information accurate and up to date.
• RFI/RFQ – complete enquiries accurately and within defined timescales.
• Full cost analysis; data management to ensure product and supplier information is set up and maintained accurately.
• Account support – be the first point of contact for the account support functions.
• Generate and maintain departmental and category-specific reports (e.g., category spend/margin, raw material tracking).
• Attend supplier meetings, prepare pre-meeting reports with KPI trackers, and take/file minutes.
• Research, assess and initiate contact with potential new suppliers; update the supplier intelligence matrix.
• Organise and label supplier samples; manage storage to accommodate new/obsolete samples.
• Plan and deliver cost reduction initiatives using data analysis and sourcing strategies.
• Collaborate with internal teams including operations, stock control, and quality to meet production and business objectives.

Essential Experience

• Proven experience in procurement or strategic sourcing within a manufacturing environment.
• Fast-paced environment experience with strong attention to detail; ability to communicate with internal and external stakeholders at all levels.
• Ability to use initiative with energy and drive to make things happen.
• Experience leading multiple projects simultaneously and working cross-functionally.
• CIPS qualification desirable.
• Experience of using SAP is beneficial but not essential.
• Excellent administrative and organizational abilities.
• Microsoft Office proficiency.
• Negotiation skills; good numeracy and prioritisation abilities.
• Ability to self-manage; adaptable to fast-changing environments.

Seniority level

• Entry level

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Purchasing and Supply Chain
• Industries: Transportation, Logistics, Supply Chain and Storage