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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage purchasing of packaging and printed materials in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
- Company: Join a dynamic team focused on sustainability and innovation in packaging.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive team culture, and opportunities for continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Take ownership of key spend areas and make a real impact on supply chain efficiency.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement, strong negotiation skills, and excellent attention to detail.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for career growth and development.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Sedgefield (with occasional travel to Leeds)
Reporting to: Head of Planning
We are looking for an organised and commercially minded Materials Buyer/Procurement Specialist to manage the purchasing of packaging and printed materials for a busy manufacturing environment. This role suits someone who thrives on supplier coordination, maintaining continuity of supply, and supporting smooth operational performance.
The Role
- Purchase packaging materials, printed cardboard components, in-mould labels, and related items.
- Develop strong supplier relationships to secure competitive pricing and reliable service.
- Support sustainability and innovation across packaging categories.
- Maintain accurate forecasts and ensure stock levels meet production needs.
- Track market trends, costing developments, and opportunities for savings.
- Work collaboratively with Planning, Production, Warehousing, and NPD.
- Prepare clear reports on purchasing activity and supplier performance.
What We’re Looking For
- Experience in buying/procurement within manufacturing (packaging or print is a bonus).
- Strong commercial awareness and negotiation ability.
- Excellent attention to detail and organisational skills.
- Confident communicator who can coordinate effectively with suppliers and internal teams.
- Proactive, analytical, and comfortable working at pace.
Why Join?
This is a great opportunity to take ownership of a key spend area, work with a supportive team, and help drive continuous improvement across the supply chain.
Senior Materials Buyer – Packaging & Direct Materials employer: Carter Rolan Group
Contact Detail:
Carter Rolan Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Materials Buyer – Packaging & Direct Materials
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts on LinkedIn or at events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that Senior Materials Buyer role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by researching the company and its suppliers. We want you to show off your knowledge about packaging materials and market trends. It’ll make you stand out as a candidate who’s genuinely interested in the role!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! Since this role requires strong commercial awareness, we suggest role-playing scenarios with friends or mentors. Being able to demonstrate your negotiation prowess can really impress during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources to help you along the way. Plus, applying directly shows your enthusiasm for the position and gives you a better chance of getting noticed.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Materials Buyer – Packaging & Direct Materials
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in buying and procurement, especially in manufacturing. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your achievements!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for the Senior Materials Buyer role. Share specific examples of your supplier coordination and negotiation successes that demonstrate your commercial awareness.
Showcase Your Attention to Detail: In this role, attention to detail is key. When filling out your application, double-check for any typos or errors. We appreciate candidates who take the time to ensure their application is polished and professional.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Carter Rolan Group
✨Know Your Materials
Familiarise yourself with the types of packaging and printed materials relevant to the role. Understand the latest trends in sustainability and innovation within the industry. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also show that you're genuinely interested in the field.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare examples of past negotiations you've successfully handled. Be ready to discuss how you secured competitive pricing or improved supplier relationships. This will demonstrate your strong commercial awareness and ability to drive value for the company.
✨Be Organised and Detail-Oriented
Bring along a portfolio of your previous work, including reports on purchasing activities or supplier performance. Highlight your attention to detail and organisational skills during the interview. This will reassure them that you can manage the complexities of procurement effectively.
✨Communicate Confidently
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Since the role involves coordinating with suppliers and internal teams, showcasing your communication skills will be crucial. Consider doing mock interviews with friends or family to refine your delivery.
