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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support purchasing and shipping operations while gaining hands-on experience in a fast-paced environment.
- Company: Join a market-leading distribution business in the automotive sector.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, retention bonus, training, and modern office perks.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career with real responsibilities and growth opportunities in purchasing.
- Qualifications: Recent graduate or early-career individual with strong Excel skills and a proactive attitude.
- Other info: Flexible working options and a supportive team culture await you.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 30000 £ per year.
Location: Newton-le-Willows
Salary: £28,000 + £2,000 retention bonus (after 12 months)
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30am - 5:00pm / 9:00am - 5:30pm
The Opportunity
We are working with a fast-growing, market-leading distribution business supplying the automotive sector across the UK and internationally. Due to continued expansion, they are looking to recruit a Graduate Purchasing & Shipping Coordinator to join their busy purchasing team. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone early in their career who wants to develop commercially within a fast-paced supply chain and purchasing environment. This is a hands-on, detail-driven role where you will gain exposure across the full purchasing cycle from supplier coordination and logistics planning through to reporting and cost analysis.
The Role
- Supporting the end-to-end purchasing function
- Coordinating international shipments (including high-volume container bookings)
- Building and maintaining Excel-based reports across stock, pricing, and logistics
- Liaising with suppliers, freight forwarders, and internal departments
- Supporting sourcing activities across UK, European, and global markets
- Assisting with supplier performance and cost improvement initiatives
- Providing general administrative and operational support across the purchasing team
What We’re Looking For
- A recent graduate or early-career individual looking to build a career in purchasing or supply chain
- Strong Excel and IT skills (comfortable handling data and reports)
- Highly organised with excellent attention to detail
- A proactive, can-do attitude with a willingness to learn
- Confident communication skills across teams and stakeholders
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
- Flexible and committed - someone who will go the extra mile when required
What’s On Offer
- £28,000 salary + £2,000 retention bonus after 12 months
- Structured training and development within purchasing
- Clear progression opportunities as the business continues to grow
- Modern office environment
- Free on-site parking
- Staff discount
- Private healthcare and life insurance
- Limited hybrid working (post-probation, subject to approval)
Why This Role?
This is an ideal opportunity for someone looking to learn quickly, take on responsibility early, and build a long-term career within a commercially driven purchasing function.
PURCHASING AND SHIPPING ADMINISTRATOR employer: Bright Search Ltd
Contact Detail:
Bright Search Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land PURCHASING AND SHIPPING ADMINISTRATOR
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and role. Understand their values and how you can contribute. Practise common interview questions and think of examples that showcase your skills, especially in purchasing and logistics.
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can set you apart from other candidates. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities that might be perfect for you. Plus, it’s a great way to show your interest in joining our team directly.
We think you need these skills to ace PURCHASING AND SHIPPING ADMINISTRATOR
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Purchasing & Shipping Administrator role. Highlight any relevant experience or skills, especially in purchasing, logistics, or data handling. We want to see how you fit into our fast-paced environment!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're excited about this opportunity and how your background makes you a great fit. Don’t forget to mention your proactive attitude and willingness to learn – we love that!
Show Off Your Excel Skills: Since strong Excel skills are key for this role, consider mentioning any specific projects or experiences where you've used Excel effectively. We’re looking for someone who can handle data and reports like a pro!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s super easy, and you’ll be one step closer to joining our dynamic team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bright Search Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the basics of purchasing and shipping. Brush up on key terms and processes related to supply chain management. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Excel Skills on Display
Since strong Excel skills are a must for this position, be prepared to discuss your experience with spreadsheets. Bring examples of reports you've created or data you've analysed. If possible, practice explaining how you would handle specific tasks using Excel during the interview.
✨Show Your Organisational Skills
This role requires excellent attention to detail and organisation. Think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully managed multiple tasks or projects. Be ready to share how you prioritised your workload and ensured everything was completed on time.
✨Ask Smart Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask. Inquire about the team dynamics, the company's growth plans, or how success is measured in the role. This shows your enthusiasm and helps you determine if the company is the right fit for you.