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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team in managing a high-value supply chain and procurement operations.
- Company: Dynamic manufacturing company experiencing major investment and growth.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, 25 days holiday, and early finishes on Fridays.
- Why this job: Join a forward-thinking team and make a real impact in procurement.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in procurement with strong negotiation and supplier management skills.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a collaborative environment.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
The Opportunity
This is a strategic role requiring a capable procurement professional with a strong background in manufacturing or engineering environments.
The successful candidate will manage a high-value supply chain and purchasing operation, ensuring all materials, components, and services are sourced effectively to support ongoing production demands.
You’ll be leading a small team and working cross-functionally with departments such as Engineering, Production, Planning, and Quality. This is an excellent opportunity for a commercially minded leader who thrives on negotiation, supplier management, and continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage and develop a team within the purchasing function.
- Oversee a global supply chain of over 100 suppliers.
- Manage an annual spend in excess of £25 million.
- Develop and implement procurement strategies that align with company goals.
- Evaluate and select suppliers, negotiate pricing, terms, and delivery conditions.
- Maintain ERP/MRP systems, RFQs, purchase orders, and supplier records.
- Monitor supplier performance; address quality, delivery, and cost issues.
- Work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure timely supply for production.
- Analyse spend data, identify cost-saving opportunities, and mitigate supply risks.
- Maintain stock levels to balance production needs with inventory control.
- Generate and present regular procurement reports to senior management.
- Ensure compliance with internal policies and external regulations.
What We’re Looking For
Essential:
- 10+ years of experience in procurement or purchasing within a manufacturing or engineering environment.
- Strong understanding of technical requirements and the ability to interpret engineering drawings and specifications.
- Proven ability to manage supplier relationships, negotiate contracts, and handle high-value purchasing.
- Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems and procurement reporting.
- Strong communication, negotiation, and analytical skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities under tight production deadlines.
Desirable:
- CIPS Level 4 Diploma or higher (or working towards).
- Experience within the heavy engineering, transport equipment, or trailer manufacturing sectors.
- Membership with the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS).
- Familiarity with AS400 systems.
Key Competencies
- Strategic and commercial mindset
- Attention to detail and focus on quality
- Effective leadership and team management
- Strong negotiation and influencing ability
- Problem-solving and decision-making skills
- Adaptability and continuous improvement approach
What’s on Offer
- Competitive salary package (£40,000–£50,000)
- Company pension scheme
- 25 days holiday + bank holidays
- Early finish on Fridays
- On-site parking
- A chance to play a key role in a business experiencing major investment and growth
Apply Today
If you\\\’re a proactive and experienced Purchasing Manager looking for your next challenge within a dynamic and forward-thinking manufacturing environment, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now or contact Meda on 01476574514 for more information.
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Purchasing Manager employer: Ambitions Personnel
Contact Detail:
Ambitions Personnel Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Purchasing Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the manufacturing and engineering sectors. Attend industry events or webinars to meet potential employers and get your name out there.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your negotiation skills! Prepare examples of successful negotiations you've led in the past. Be ready to discuss how you managed supplier relationships and achieved cost savings during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Research the company thoroughly! Understand their procurement strategies and challenges. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate how you can add value to their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in the role and the company.
We think you need these skills to ace Purchasing Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience mentioned in the job description. Highlight your procurement expertise, especially in manufacturing or engineering environments, to show us you’re the right fit for the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you’re passionate about procurement and how your background aligns with our needs. Share specific examples of your negotiation successes and supplier management to grab our attention!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Since this role involves managing a team, don’t forget to highlight your leadership experience. Tell us about times you’ve successfully led a team or improved processes, as we value effective leadership and continuous improvement.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ambitions Personnel
✨Know Your Numbers
Make sure you’re familiar with the financial aspects of procurement. Be ready to discuss how you've managed budgets, negotiated contracts, and achieved cost savings in previous roles. This will show your potential employer that you understand the financial impact of your decisions.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Purchasing Manager, you'll be leading a team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, focusing on your leadership style and how you’ve developed team members. Highlight any specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to inspire and motivate others.
✨Understand the Supply Chain
Brush up on your knowledge of supply chain management, especially in manufacturing or engineering contexts. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve handled supplier relationships, addressed quality issues, and ensured timely delivery of materials. This will show that you can navigate the complexities of a global supply chain.
✨Prepare for Cross-Functional Collaboration
Since this role involves working closely with various departments, think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with teams like Engineering, Production, or Quality. Discuss how you’ve facilitated communication and resolved conflicts to ensure smooth operations, demonstrating your ability to work cross-functionally.
