Purchasing Manager in Witham

Crittall Windows Ltd is the world leader in the manufacture of hand crafted, beautiful steel windows and doors that grace some of the finest buildings across the globe. As part of our growth plan, and to meet demand for our iconic products, we are seeking to appoint a full time Order Processor, based at our head office in Witham. We offer 25 days paid annual leave (plus bank holidays), flexible working, sick pay, pension, profit related bonus scheme, employee benefits package (discounts on everyday goods & services) & life assurance cover. This is a great opportunity to join a world-renowned company with a rich heritage spanning over 175 years. The company actively supports progression and will provide learning opportunities and full training to the successful candidate.

Job Description

Department: Purchasing
Reporting to: Head of Manufacturing
Place of Work: Head Office, Witham, Essex

Purpose: The Purchasing Manager is responsible for leading the procurement function to ensure the business sources high‐quality goods and services at the best possible value. This role oversees supplier selection, contract negotiation, cost optimisation, and inventory planning while ensuring compliance with company policies and industry regulations. The Purchasing Manager works closely with internal stakeholders—including operations, finance, supply chain, and production teams—to support business objectives and maintain a resilient, efficient supply base.

Internal Contacts: Pre-Production, Production, Quality, Finance, Site operations
External Contacts: Supply Chain network

Roles, Duties and Responsibilities:

• Transfer information from CAD drawings into configurator software.
• Produce CAD drawings of windows & doors.
• Collaborate with fabrication craftspeople & technical support teams.
• Develop and execute purchasing strategies aligned with company objectives.
• Identify, evaluate, and onboard suppliers based on quality, reliability, cost, and capacity.
• Negotiate prices, terms, and contracts to secure favourable agreements.
• Build strong, collaborative relationships with key suppliers.
• Monitor supplier performance (quality, on‐time delivery, responsiveness) and implement corrective actions when needed.
• Analyse purchasing spend and identify cost‐saving opportunities.
• Track market trends, material costs, and currency impacts to mitigate risk.
• Drive continuous improvement in procurement processes to reduce waste and cost.
• Collaborate with planning and operations teams to ensure optimal stock levels.
• Prevent supply shortages through proactive forecasting and supplier communication.
• Manage lead times, safety stock strategies, and order planning.
• Ensure procurement activities comply with company policies and industry standards.
• Maintain accurate purchasing documentation, contracts, and supplier records.
• Assess and manage supply chain risks, including single‐source items and geopolitical impacts.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the procurement team.
• Allocate workloads, set performance objectives, and conduct reviews.

Skills and Qualifications:

• Strong understanding of purchasing principles, supply chain management, and inventory control.
• Proficient in procurement software and Excel (data analysis & reporting).
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and relationship‐building skills.
• Analytical thinker with strong decision‐making ability.
• High attention to detail and organisational skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage competing priorities.
• Leadership and team‐management capabilities.
• Knowledge of contract law and compliance requirements.
• CIPS level 4 or similar.

Experience:

• Proven experience as a Purchasing Manager, Procurement Lead, or similar role.
• Demonstrated success in supplier negotiation and contract management.
• Experience within a related industry (manufacturing, etc.).
• Track record of cost savings and improving supplier performance.
• Procurement systems experience (SAP, Oracle, Dynamics or similar).
• Experience with Epicor ERP platform.

The statements above are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to the role. They should not be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties and skills required of the person in the role. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of Crittall Windows.