At a Glance
- Tasks: Oversee procurement and inventory management, ensuring materials are available at the right time and cost.
- Company: Leading manufacturer with ambitious growth plans and a focus on quality.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, company bonus, pension scheme, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team and enjoy excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a strategic role that drives efficiency and growth.
- Qualifications: Experience in purchasing, supply chain, and strong analytical skills required.
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.
Key Responsibilities
- 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 Peterborough 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 you the chance to make a significant impact in a supportive environment. Enjoy additional benefits such as a company bonus scheme, pension contributions, and employee discounts, all while contributing to a culture of continuous improvement and excellence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Purchasing & Inventory Manager in Peterborough
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts on LinkedIn or attend local events. 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 its culture. Tailor your answers to show how your experience aligns with their needs, especially in purchasing and inventory management.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your analytical skills during interviews. Bring examples of how you've used data to drive decisions in past roles, especially around procurement and inventory control.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed and shows you're serious about joining the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Purchasing & Inventory Manager in Peterborough
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. Share specific examples of how you've built supplier relationships or developed purchasing strategies that led to cost savings or efficiency improvements.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills:Since this role requires strong analytical thinking, make sure to include examples of how you've used data to drive decisions in your past positions. Whether it's forecasting demand or analysing performance data, let us see your numbers game!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
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 strategic, so showing that you can drive strong commercial outcomes will impress the interviewers.
✨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 them you understand the bigger picture!
✨Demonstrate Leadership Qualities
Since this role involves leading a team, think of examples where you've fostered a culture of continuous improvement. Discuss how you've motivated your team and resolved conflicts. They want to see that you can inspire others while driving efficiency.
