Job Description
Role Purpose
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At Grayson, the Assistant Buyer will support the Purchasing team in ensuring products, materials and services are sourced efficiently, cost effectively and in line with operational requirements. This is a developmental role designed for individuals looking to build a long-term career in Procurement and Supply Chain Management.
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The Assistant Buyer will assist with purchasing administration, supplier liaison, market analysis, stock monitoring and procurement reporting whilst gaining experience across the full procurement cycle. The role provides a pathway into a professional buying career and supports progression towards industry-recognised procurement qualifications
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Key Responsibilities
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Purchasing & Procurement
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- Raise and manage purchase orders accurately and efficiently.
- Obtain supplier quotations and compare pricing, quality and service levels.
- Track orders and liaise with suppliers to ensure timely delivery.
- Support sourcing activities in line with business requirements.
- Assist with procurement projects and supplier evaluations.
- Escalate supply chain issues, shortages or delivery delays where appropriate.
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Supplier & Commercial Support
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- Build and maintain positive supplier relationships.
- Support supplier performance reviews relating to cost, quality and delivery.
- Resolve supplier queries and invoice discrepancies.
- Assist in identifying cost-saving and value-improvement opportunities.
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Inventory & Data Analysis
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- Monitor stock levels and support replenishment activities.
- Assist with stock takes and inventory accuracy initiatives.
- Maintain accurate purchasing data and procurement records.
- Analyse purchasing information, supplier performance and market trends.
- Prepare procurement reports and management information.
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Stakeholder Collaboration
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- Work closely with Operations, Finance, Sales and other departments to support business objectives.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives across purchasing and supply chain activities.
- Maintain high standards of professionalism and customer service.
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Essential Qualifications
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Applicants must hold one of the following:
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- Degree in Business, Procurement, Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Finance, Marketing or a related commercial discipline.
- HNC/HND in Business, Procurement, Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Finance or a related discipline.
- Currently studying towards, or committed to working towards, a Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) qualification.
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Additionally:
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- GCSE (or equivalent) English and Mathematics.
- Strong Microsoft Excel capability.
- Demonstrable interest in Procurement, Purchasing or Supply Chain Management.
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Essential Experience
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- Previous experience in an administrative, commercial support, retail, merchandising, purchasing or customer-focused environment.
- Experience using Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel.
- Experience working with data, reports and business systems.
- Experience prioritising workload and managing multiple tasks effectively.
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Desirable Experience
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- Experience within a purchasing, procurement, manufacturing, engineering or distribution environment.
- Experience using ERP, MRP or purchasing systems.
- Previous internship, placement year or entry-level role within Purchasing, Buying or Supply Chain.
- Progress towards a CIPS qualification.
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Key Competencies
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- Commercial Awareness
- Analytical Thinking
- Attention to Detail
- Relationship Building
- Planning and Organisation
- Communication and Influencing Skills
- Problem Solving
- Customer Focus
- Team Collaboration
- Initiative
- Continuous Improvement
- Accountability
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Note
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This position is a developmental support role within the Purchasing function and does not carry the category ownership, purchasing strategy, budget accountability or contractual responsibility associated with a Buyer role.
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Assistant Buyer in Birmingham employer: Grayson Thermal Systems
As a Warehouse Manager at our company, you will be part of a dynamic and supportive work environment that prioritises safety and high performance. We offer comprehensive training and development opportunities to help you grow your career while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and teamwork. Located in a vibrant area, our facility is equipped with modern technology and resources, ensuring you have everything you need to succeed in your role.
