At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our procurement team to manage supplier relationships and drive strategic sourcing initiatives.
- Company: A dynamic company focused on procurement across two manufacturing sites in Dartford.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, free lunches, health cover, and a fun social scene.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in procurement while developing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Previous procurement experience is a plus; strong admin skills and a desire to grow are essential.
- Other info: Car driver required due to location; UK residency needed for application.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 32000 Β£ per year.
Location: Dartford | Β£35,000 - Β£38,000 DOE
Work Pattern: Hybrid (3 days office, 2 days from home)
You must be a car driver for this opportunity due to the location of the warehouse. Please do not apply if you are reliant on public transport. Please ensure your location is clearly written on your CV.
About the Role
We are seeking a motivated Procurement Support Specialist to join our clients procurement team, supporting operations across two manufacturing sites. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to develop their career in procurement while making a meaningful contribution to supplier portfolio development across packaging, ingredients, and third-party manufacturing.
Key Responsibilities
- Procurement Administration & Data Management
- Maintain ERP data systems (JD Edwards) including price updates and supplier setup
- Provide comprehensive administrative support to the procurement team
- Manage invoice queries and resolution processes
- Compile regular reports including monthly/annual spend data and PPV KPIs
- Monitor On-Time In-Full (OTIF) delivery and quality metrics, including DMR management
- Track and report on productivity savings initiatives
- Strategic Sourcing & Contract Management
- Lead full tender processes for strategic sourcing initiatives
- Negotiate and execute contractual agreements for packaging, ingredients, and third-party products
- Ensure optimal trade terms, cost efficiency, quality standards, and service delivery
- Research and analyse global markets to identify new suppliers for current and future business needs
- Market Intelligence & Innovation
- Develop understanding of key commodity markets and present market insights
- Contribute to financial budget development across all procurement categories
- Drive innovation initiatives for packaging, ingredients, and third-party products
- Supplier Relationship Management
- Manage purchase order administration through JD Edwards system
- Coordinate artwork amendments and new designs with printers through close marketing liaison
- Conduct quarterly supplier performance reviews with key stakeholders
- Support Planning, Technical, and Operations teams with supplier-related issues
Additional Responsibilities
- Support indirect procurement requirements including energy, freight, transport, facilities, and waste management
- Potential for domestic and international travel as required
What Weβre Looking For
Essential Skills & Attributes
- Strong administrative and organisational capabilities
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- Confident presentation abilities
- Solid understanding of end-to-end sourcing processes
- Project management experience
- Effective time management skills
- Flexible, open-minded approach to work
- Strong team collaboration skills
- Genuine desire to develop and progress within procurement
Experience & Qualifications
- Previous procurement experience would be advantageous
- Relevant qualifications in procurement, supply chain, or business would be beneficial
Company Benefits:
- Holidays: 25 days (increasing to 28 days with service).
- Additional Leave: Up to 10 extra days for long service milestones.
- Pension: Group personal pension with 4% company contribution.
- Life Cover: 3 x salary paid to your nominated beneficiary.
- Maternity Pay: Occupational maternity pay plus SMP.
- Accident Cover: Disability compensation payment.
- Health & Wellbeing: BUPA & BUPA cash plan (individual or family).
- Recognition: Employee Star Award.
- Lunches & Drinks: Free lunch every day (valued at Β£700) + free drinks.
- Social: Heavily subsidised sports & social events + annual company BBQ.
- Annual Flu Vaccination: Provided for all employees.
Additional Notes:
Car Driver Required: The office is not accessible via public transport; therefore, a valid driving license and access to a car is essential. Please mention your location in your CV. Applications without location details may experience delays in processing.
Eligibility: Only applicants with UK residency and full visa status will be considered. Applications from those outside of the UK will not be shortlisted. If you plan to relocate, please mention this in your CV or cover letter.
Buyer employer: Pursuit Executive Recruitment Ltd
Contact Detail:
Pursuit Executive Recruitment Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Buyer
β¨Tip Number 1
Make sure to highlight your previous procurement experience during the interview. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've managed supplier relationships or handled procurement processes in the past.
β¨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with JD Edwards, as it's mentioned in the job description. If you have experience with this ERP system, be ready to talk about it; if not, consider doing a bit of research to understand its functionalities.
β¨Tip Number 3
Since the role involves strategic sourcing and contract management, brush up on your negotiation skills. Think of scenarios where you've successfully negotiated terms or resolved conflicts, as these will be valuable talking points.
β¨Tip Number 4
Given the emphasis on market intelligence, prepare to discuss current trends in procurement and supply chain management. Showing that you're informed about the industry will demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Buyer
Some tips for your application π«‘
Highlight Relevant Experience: Make sure to emphasise any previous procurement experience you have in your CV and cover letter. Tailor your application to showcase how your skills align with the responsibilities listed in the job description.
Include Your Location: Since the role requires a car driver due to the location of the warehouse, clearly state your location in your CV. This is crucial as applications without this information may face delays.
Demonstrate Key Skills: In your application, highlight your strong administrative and organisational capabilities, proficiency in Microsoft Office, and effective communication skills. Use specific examples to illustrate these attributes.
Show Your Motivation: Express your genuine desire to develop within the procurement field in your cover letter. Mention how this role aligns with your career goals and what you can bring to the team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Pursuit Executive Recruitment Ltd
β¨Showcase Your Procurement Knowledge
Make sure to brush up on your understanding of procurement processes and market trends. Be prepared to discuss your previous experiences in procurement, especially any relevant projects or achievements that demonstrate your skills.
β¨Highlight Your Administrative Skills
Since the role involves a lot of data management and administrative support, be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully managed similar tasks in the past. Mention your proficiency with ERP systems like JD Edwards and your experience with Microsoft Office.
β¨Demonstrate Strong Communication Abilities
Effective communication is key in this role, so practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Prepare to discuss how youβve built relationships with suppliers and collaborated with teams in previous positions.
β¨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle supplier-related issues. Think of specific scenarios where you had to negotiate contracts or resolve invoice queries, and be ready to explain your approach and the outcomes.