At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement operations, manage supplier relationships, and develop purchasing strategies.
- Company: Join Albert Bartlett, a top UK potato supplier committed to quality and sustainability since 1948.
- Benefits: Enjoy pension plans, life assurance, leave packages, and an employee assistance programme.
- Other info: Site-based role with Monday to Friday working hours, 8AM-5PM.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact in procurement while working in a dynamic and innovative environment.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in procurement, strong negotiation skills, and experience in FMCG or manufacturing preferred.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Albert Bartlett has been a leader in the potato industry since 1948, dedicated to delivering the highest quality produce while maintaining sustainable practices. Recognized as the UK’s premier supplier of potatoes, we operate with a commitment to innovation and quality across our sourcing and procurement functions. We are seeking an experienced and strategic Purchasing Manager to join our team and take the lead in managing all purchasing activities. This is an exciting opportunity for a dynamic individual with an eye for detail and a drive for operational excellence.
The Purchasing Manager will lead procurement operations across specialised materials, packaging, equipment, and services, with full accountability for supplier relationships, category pricing, and compliance. The manager will be a vital link between suppliers, internal teams, and business goals, ensuring the right materials at the right cost.
In this role, you will be responsible for developing and executing procurement strategies that align with our company goals, ensuring that we have the right products at the right time and at the right price. Your expertise in supplier negotiation, market analysis, and strategic sourcing will be essential in maintaining quality and efficiency across our operations. If you are ready to advance your career in procurement and make a significant impact in a dynamic environment, we encourage you to apply!
Site based Working hours: Monday-Friday 8AM-5PM
Core Responsibilities
- Create and execute purchasing plans aligned with production schedules and business objectives.
- Take full ownership of assigned category ranges, including cost negotiations, supplier performance, and relationship development.
- Evaluate current suppliers and conduct benchmarking analysis to ensure the business secures best pricing, quality, and service levels.
- Develop and nurture long-term supplier partnerships, including contingency planning and regular performance reviews.
- Identify and onboard new suppliers through robust evaluation protocols covering cost, capacity, stability, and strategic fit.
Systems Management & Process Optimisation
- Maintain and optimise purchasing systems and ERP tools, ensuring accurate records and efficient workflows.
- Support cross-functional teams in understanding procurement procedures and resolving queries, enhancing transparency and collaboration.
- Review purchase requisitions for completeness and determine appropriate sourcing strategies based on spend thresholds and importance.
- Drive improvements in invoicing processes, working closely with finance to eliminate discrepancies and streamline transactions.
- Act as the primary procurement liaison with departments such as Production, Distribution, Warehousing, and New Product Development (NPD).
- Forecast material requirements and communicate expected demand to suppliers, preventing stock shortages and production delays.
- Advise NPD teams on suitable suppliers and sourcing options to align with innovation, compliance regulations, and overall purchasing strategy.
- Ensure seamless new product launches by securing necessary materials, negotiating lead times, and monitoring supplier deliverables.
Reporting
- Support the business's commercial goals by delivering on cost-saving targets without compromising quality or reliability.
- Contribute to the Board Report monthly.
- Visit and host key suppliers, prepare detailed visit reports, and capture feedback that fuels continuous improvement.
Requirements
- Minimum 5+ years of experience in procurement, preferably within FMCG, manufacturing, or packaging-related industries.
- Demonstrated success in cost reduction, supplier development, and cross-functional collaboration.
- CIPS or equivalent professional qualification is highly desirable but not essential.
- Strong grasp of global and local markets, particularly in the packaging industry.
- Strong communicator and skilled negotiator who builds trust and drives value.
- Strong capability in handling data, performing market analyses.
- Proven people manager who develops talent, inspires performance, and leads by example.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office and ERP systems (preferably Infor M3).
- Sound understanding of regulatory environments, including packaging regulations and H&S protocols.
Pension Plans, Life Assurance, Leave Package, Employee Assistance Programme - Counseling.
Purchasing Manager in Airdrie employer: Albert Bartlett
At Albert Bartlett, we pride ourselves on being a leader in the potato industry, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters innovation and operational excellence. As a Purchasing Manager, you will benefit from a supportive environment that prioritises employee growth through continuous development opportunities and a commitment to sustainability. With competitive benefits including pension plans and an employee assistance programme, joining our team means becoming part of a forward-thinking company dedicated to quality and collaboration.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Purchasing Manager in Airdrie
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in procurement and supply chain management, especially within the FMCG and packaging industries. This knowledge will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to staying updated in a rapidly evolving field.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the procurement sector, particularly those who have experience in the potato or FMCG industries. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to build connections that could provide insights or even referrals for the Purchasing Manager role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully negotiated with suppliers or implemented cost-saving strategies in your previous roles. Being able to articulate your past successes will showcase your capability and fit for the position.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Albert Bartlett’s values and sustainability practices, as these are key components of their operations. Showing that you align with their mission and can contribute to their goals will make you a more attractive candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Purchasing Manager in Airdrie
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in procurement, particularly in FMCG or manufacturing. Emphasise your achievements in cost reduction and supplier development to align with the role's requirements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that showcases your strategic thinking and operational excellence. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully managed supplier relationships and executed procurement strategies in previous roles.
Highlight Relevant Skills:In your application, focus on key skills such as negotiation, market analysis, and data handling. Make sure to mention your proficiency with ERP systems and any relevant qualifications like CIPS.
Showcase Your Leadership Experience:Since the role involves managing teams and developing talent, include examples of your leadership experience. Discuss how you've inspired performance and built trust within cross-functional teams.
How to prepare for a job interview at Albert Bartlett
✨Research the Company
Before your interview, make sure to thoroughly research Albert Bartlett. Understand their history, values, and recent developments in the potato industry. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in the company.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Expect questions that assess your past experiences, especially in procurement and supplier management. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses, highlighting your achievements in cost reduction and supplier development.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
As a Purchasing Manager, strong negotiation skills are crucial. Be ready to discuss specific examples of successful negotiations you've conducted, focusing on how you achieved cost savings while maintaining quality and supplier relationships.
✨Demonstrate Cross-Functional Collaboration
Highlight your experience working with different departments such as Production, Distribution, and New Product Development. Discuss how you've facilitated communication and collaboration to achieve common goals, which is essential for this role.
