At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a buying team and own inventory management for a fast-paced distribution business.
- Company: Dynamic regulated distribution company based in Salford.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, bonuses, and enhanced leave options.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and involvement in exciting projects.
- Why this job: Take ownership of stock health and drive real change in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement or inventory management with strong analytical skills.
ALF Recruit have been engaged to recruit an Inventory and Supply Manager for a fast-paced, regulated distribution business based in Salford.
This is a role for someone who wants genuine ownership of stock health rather than just reporting on it.
You’ll lead a buying team, hold the line on inventory KPIs, and be the escalation point when supplier service or availability slips.
It’s a business where the numbers behind the scenes actually get acted on, not just presented.
- What you’ll get
- £50,000 – £55,000 depending on experience
- 10% annual bonus
- Hybrid working – 3 days a week in the office
- Enhanced maternity leave
- Enhanced paternity leave
- Company pension
- Life insurance
- Cycle to work scheme
- Bereavement leave
- Company events
- Free / onsite parking What you’ll be doing
- Owning the inventory operating framework and making sure it’s applied consistently
- Leading, coaching and developing a buying team, setting priorities and holding the line on KPIs
- Acting as the primary operational escalation point for supplier stock and service issues
- Owning cost price governance across the portfolio, challenging anomalies as they arise
- Reporting on availability, working capital, inventory cover and supplier performance, and using it to drive real change
- Supporting the rollout of a new ERP system and pushing for smarter, more automated reporting
- Picking up ad hoc projects as they arise, and supporting the wider procurement function where needed What we’re looking for
- Previous experience in procurement, inventory management or supply chain leadership within a regulated or high-compliance environment
- A proven track record of managing or developing a team
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with advanced Excel and data interpretation ability
- Excellent commercial awareness and the confidence to challenge when the numbers don’t add up
- Experience of supplier relationship management
- Strong communication and stakeholder management skills
Desirable: experience with ERP systems (Net Suite, SAP or similar), exposure to Power BI or other reporting tools, and an understanding of inventory optimisation principles.
If you’re an inventory or procurement leader who wants genuine ownership rather than a steady-state function, this is well worth a conversation.
Apply directly or get in touch with Joanne Sizer at ALF Recruit for a private and confidential discussion
Procurement Manager in Salford employer: ALF Recruit
ALF Recruit is an excellent employer that values strategic thinking and collaboration, offering a dynamic work culture in Burnley. Employees benefit from flexible working arrangements, competitive salaries, and ample opportunities for professional growth, making it an ideal place for those looking to make a meaningful impact in HR. Join us to partner with senior leaders and drive organisational change in a supportive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Manager in Salford
✨Get Savvy with Industry Perks
Join procurement and purchasing forums or groups where pros hang out, like CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply). They'll share the inside scoop on job openings that might not show up on traditional job boards!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Consider creating a portfolio that outlines your achievements in procurement, like cost-saving initiatives or supplier management strategies. Having tangible evidence of your skills can really set you apart when applying to companies like ALF Recruit.
✨Tap into Your Network
Leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in procurement—follow relevant hashtags, join groups, and engage in discussions. This is a great way to get noticed by potential employers before they even post a job!
✨Keep Your Eyes on Job Boards
With full-time positions, timing can be everything. Set alerts on job boards specifically for procurement roles. Don't wait for a job posting to close; apply through our website as soon as you see a fit—being proactive can give you the edge!
We think you need these skills to ace Procurement Manager in Salford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Procurement Know-How:When you're crafting your CV, make sure to highlight any procurement-specific skills you've got. Talk about your experience with supplier negotiations, cost analysis, or inventory management. If you’ve used software like SAP or Oracle, don’t forget to mention that too – it shows you know your way around the tech side of things!
Quantify Your Achievements:In procurement, numbers matter. Use your CV and cover letter to showcase any quantifiable achievements you've made in reducing costs or improving efficiencies. For example, mentioning that you helped save 20% on purchasing costs last year is way more impressive than just saying you managed the budget!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to ALF Recruit:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to ALF Recruit. Research the company’s procurement strategy, mention how your skills align with their goals, and share your enthusiasm for contributing to their success. This personal touch can really set you apart from the crowd!
Professional Certs Can Go a Long Way:If you've got any procurement-related certifications, such as CIPS or APICS, make sure they're front and centre on your CV. These qualifications show you're serious about your career in procurement and are committed to continuous learning. It’s a great way to signal your expertise and dedication to potential employers like ALF Recruit.
How to prepare for a job interview at ALF Recruit
✨Show Off Your Negotiation Skills
In procurement, strong negotiation skills are key. Be ready to share examples of past negotiations where you've successfully saved costs or improved supplier terms. We want to hear how you approached those situations and the strategies you used to achieve positive outcomes!
✨Know Your Tools
Make sure you’re familiar with procurement software and tools commonly used in the industry, such as SAP Ariba or Coupa. Come prepared to discuss any experiences you've had with these tools or similar platforms, as we need someone who can hit the ground running at ALF Recruit!
✨Understand Market Trends
As a procurement professional, being aware of market trends can set you apart. Brush up on recent developments in supply chain management or procurement best practices and think about how they could impact your role at ALF Recruit. Bringing a current perspective will show your enthusiasm for the industry.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Player Attitude
A full-time position means you'll be working closely with various teams. Be prepared to discuss how you collaborate with others, manage conflicts, and build relationships with stakeholders. Sharing anecdotes about past teamwork experiences will highlight your ability to fit into ALF Recruit's culture.
