At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead purchasing and inventory management to ensure materials are available at the right time and cost.
- Company: Join a leading manufacturer with ambitious growth plans and a focus on quality.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, hybrid working, bonuses, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Opportunity for career advancement in a dynamic and supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a strategic role that drives efficiency and growth.
- Qualifications: Experience in purchasing, procurement, or supply chain, ideally in manufacturing.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
We're partnering with a leading manufacturer with big growth plans to find a talented Purchasing & Inventory Manager to oversee the procurement of raw materials, packaging, and production goods while maintaining efficient inventory levels. This is more than just a procurement role - it's a strategic position at the heart of the business, where your decisions directly impact production, profitability, and growth.
What You'll Be Doing
- As a key member of the management team, you'll take full ownership of purchasing and inventory management, ensuring the right materials are in place at the right time - and at the right cost.
- Build & manage supplier relationships, ensuring reliability, quality, and value.
- Develop smart purchasing strategies to secure high-quality materials at competitive prices.
- Maintain optimal stock levels, balancing availability with cost control and waste reduction.
- Lead contract negotiations, delivering strong commercial outcomes.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with Sales, Production, Finance & Quality teams.
- Own forecasting & budgeting, aligning procurement with production plans.
- Drive supply chain performance, resolving issues proactively.
- Oversee warehouse utilisation to maximise efficiency.
- Ensure compliance with industry standards, safety, and sustainability regulations.
- Analyse performance data and present actionable insights to leadership.
- Lead and develop your team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
What We're Looking For
We're looking for someone who combines analytical thinking with strong commercial awareness and a proactive, solutions-driven approach.
Your Experience
- Extensive experience in purchasing, procurement, or supply chain, ideally in manufacturing.
- Strong understanding of inventory management, demand forecasting, and stock control.
- Experience with BOMs, MRP, or inventory systems.
- Proven ability to negotiate and manage suppliers effectively.
- Previous team leadership or management experience.
Your Skills
- Highly numerate and analytical, with excellent problem-solving ability.
- Strong organisation and prioritisation skills.
- Advanced Excel and system proficiency.
- Able to work independently while influencing across teams.
- Flexible, hands-on mindset with a drive for continuous improvement.
What's in It for You?
- Competitive salary.
- Hybrid working (after probation period - 3/2 split).
- Monday-Friday (8am-4pm), 37.5 hours/week.
- Company bonus scheme.
- Pension scheme.
- Employee discounts.
- Long service awards.
- Free on-site parking.
Why Join?
This is a fantastic opportunity to step into a high-visibility and high-impact role within a growing, quality-focused business where your ideas and leadership will make a real difference. If you're ready to take ownership, drive efficiency, and shape a best-in-class procurement function, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply now and take the next step in your career!
Purchasing & Inventory Manager in Cambridge employer: EA First
Join a dynamic and forward-thinking manufacturer that prioritises employee growth and innovation. With a competitive salary, hybrid working options, and a strong emphasis on team development, this role offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact in a supportive work culture. Enjoy additional benefits such as a company bonus scheme, pension contributions, and employee discounts, all while contributing to a business with ambitious growth plans.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Purchasing & Inventory Manager in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts on LinkedIn or attend local events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that Purchasing & Inventory Manager role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its supply chain processes. We want you to show off your knowledge about their operations and how you can contribute to their growth plans. Be ready to discuss your past experiences in detail!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! Since this role involves leading contract negotiations, we suggest you role-play with a friend or mentor. This will help you feel more confident when discussing terms and securing those high-quality materials at competitive prices.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in showing your enthusiasm for the role. We believe that a little extra effort can make a big difference in landing that dream job.
We think you need these skills to ace Purchasing & Inventory Manager in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the Purchasing & Inventory Manager role. Highlight your experience in procurement and inventory management, and don’t forget to showcase any relevant achievements that demonstrate your impact in previous roles.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for this strategic position. Mention specific skills like negotiation and supplier management, and how they align with the company’s growth plans.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills:Since this role requires strong analytical thinking, be sure to include examples of how you've used data to drive decisions in purchasing or inventory management. This will show us that you can bring valuable insights to the team.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply 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 EA First
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Purchasing & Inventory Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your analytical skills. Brush up on key metrics related to inventory management, procurement costs, and supplier performance. Be ready to discuss how you've used data to make informed decisions in the past.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare examples of successful contract negotiations you've led. Highlight how you secured better terms or improved supplier relationships. This role is all about getting the best value, so be sure to convey your strategic approach to negotiations.
✨Understand the Business Impact
This isn't just about purchasing; it's about how your decisions affect production and profitability. Be prepared to discuss how you've aligned procurement strategies with business goals in previous roles. Show that you understand the bigger picture!
✨Demonstrate Leadership Qualities
If you've led a team before, share your experiences in fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Talk about how you've motivated your team and resolved conflicts. This role requires strong leadership, so make sure to highlight your management style and successes.
