At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage purchasing and inventory to ensure materials are available at the right time and cost.
- Company: Join a growing, quality-focused business with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, hybrid working, bonuses, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Flexible, hands-on environment with opportunities for continuous improvement and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a high-visibility role and lead a dynamic team.
- Qualifications: Experience in purchasing, supply chain, and strong negotiation skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
As a key member of the management team, you will 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 and manage supplier relationships, ensuring reliability, quality, and value
- Develop 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 and Quality teams
- Own forecasting and 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 are 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 per 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, high-impact role within a growing, quality-focused business. Your ideas and leadership will make a real difference.
Purchasing & Inventory Manager employer: EA First
As a Purchasing & Inventory Manager at our dynamic and quality-focused company, you will thrive in a supportive work culture that values your contributions and encourages continuous improvement. With competitive salaries, hybrid working options, and a strong emphasis on employee growth through leadership opportunities, we provide an environment where your ideas can truly make an impact. Join us to be part of a team that prioritises collaboration and innovation while enjoying benefits like a company bonus scheme and long service awards.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Purchasing & Inventory Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry and let them know you're on the hunt for a Purchasing & Inventory Manager role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on an opportunity or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its supply chain processes. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs, especially around supplier relationships and inventory management. Show them you’re the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply through job boards; head over to our website and submit your application directly. This shows initiative and gives you a better chance of standing out from the crowd. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews with a thank-you email. Mention something specific from your conversation to remind them of your fit for the role. It’s a simple way to keep yourself top of mind and show your enthusiasm for the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Purchasing & Inventory Manager
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 mention any relevant achievements that showcase your analytical thinking and commercial awareness.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for our team. Share specific examples of how you've built supplier relationships or led contract negotiations, and show us your proactive, solutions-driven approach.
Showcase Your Skills:We want to see your skills in action! If you have experience with BOMs, MRP, or inventory systems, make sure to include that in your application. Also, highlight your advanced Excel proficiency and any other tools you’ve used to drive supply chain performance.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect with us directly.
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 and purchasing strategies. Be ready to discuss how you've used data to make decisions in the past.
✨Supplier Relationship Savvy
Prepare examples of how you've built and maintained strong supplier relationships. Think about specific instances where your negotiation skills led to better pricing or quality. This will show your potential employer that you can handle their supplier dynamics effectively.
✨Cross-Functional Collaboration
Since this role involves working with various teams, be prepared to share experiences where you've successfully collaborated across departments. Highlight how you resolved conflicts or aligned goals to achieve a common objective, showcasing your teamwork skills.
✨Continuous Improvement Mindset
Showcase your proactive approach by discussing any initiatives you've led that improved processes or reduced costs. Employers love candidates who are not just reactive but also think ahead and drive change within their teams.
