At a Glance
- Tasks: Coordinate procurement activities and build strong supplier relationships in a dynamic team.
- Company: Join Johnstons of Elgin, a luxury brand with over 225 years of heritage.
- Benefits: Flexible part-time hours, competitive salary, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Embrace diversity and inclusion in a company committed to sustainability.
- Why this job: Make an impact in a fast-paced role while learning about supply chain management.
- Qualifications: Degree in relevant fields and previous purchasing experience preferred.
The predicted salary is between 17485 - 17485 £ per year.
We have an exciting opportunity for a Purchasing Co‑ordinator to join our busy Procurement team based in Elgin. This is a permanent, office‑based, part‑time role working 25 hours per week on dayshift. We can offer flexibility around working hours for the right candidate. The starting salary is £17,485 per annum for 25 hours per week, dependent on experience.
About the Role
As a key member of a fast-paced procurement team and with guidance from the Procurement & Supply Chain Manager, you will be tasked with coordinating all procurement activities within the Johnstons of Elgin. Ideally, this role will involve sourcing for suitable/compatible suppliers, negotiating prices, lead times, payment terms and other terms of purchase in this category. Your primary focus will be on ensuring that all procurement activities are conducted in a timely, cost-effective, and quality-oriented manner. Additionally, you will work closely with suppliers, internal departments, and other stakeholders to support the continuous improvement of our supply chain operations.
Key Responsibilities:
- Sourcing and Supplier Management: Identify and evaluate potential suppliers who have the capability to meet Johnstons of Elgin's goals and provide best value for money. Establish and maintain strong relationships with suppliers to ensure reliable and steady supply at the best price and quality and minimise supply failures. Monitor and measure Supplier Performance and address any issues related to delivery, quality, or service.
- Procurement Process Management: Receive, assess and process purchase requests from internal departments, process purchase orders and ensure timely delivery of requests to ensure smooth and seamless operations across the business. Maintain accurate records of purchases, prices, specifications, and other relevant data. Coordinate with internal departments to forecast procurement needs and manage inventory levels. Initiate and solicit purchase requests through Re-Order Levels.
- Negotiation and Contract Management: Negotiate terms and conditions with suppliers to secure deals that represent best value for money in Johnstons of Elgin's interest. Support the Procurement & Supply Chain manager in preparing and managing contracts, ensuring compliance with company policies and legal requirements.
- Inventory & Cost Management: Monitor and manage the right inventory levels to ensure adequate stock (without overstocking) and zero stock-outs. Analyse procurement data to identify cost-saving opportunities and optimise procurement processes. Implement cost saving/control measures and track procurement budgets. Prepare monthly cost-savings and other relevant reports using MS Excel, Word, and Power Point.
- Quality Assurance: Work closely with the quality control team to ensure all procured items meet required quality standards. Address any quality issues with suppliers and implement corrective actions, in a timely manner and with guidance from the Procurement & Supply Chain Manager where appropriate.
- Stakeholder Collaboration: Collaborate with production, logistics, customer services and other departments to ensure seamless supply chain operations. Communicate effectively with stakeholders to align procurement activities with company goals.
- Compliance & Risk Management: Ensure all procurement activities comply with company policies, industry standards, and legal requirements. Identify and mitigate risks associated with procurement processes and supplier relationships.
About You
- A degree in any of the following fields: Purchasing & Supply, Business Management/Studies, Supply Chain Management, Textile-related courses, any Science or Engineering related courses.
- Previous purchasing or procurement experience.
- Be a confident user of MS-Excel, MS-Word, and MS-Power Point.
- Strong organisational, analytical (working with and interpreting data) and mathematical skills.
- Have excellent communication and negotiation skills.
- Have a practical knowledge of an ERP.
- Be able to work autonomously.
- Be a good team player with excellent people skills.
- Be a quick learner and able to get a fast grip on new processes.
- Be able to multitask, prioritise and manage time effectively and efficiently.
- Have excellent relationship management and influencing skills.
- Have an excellent understanding of supply chain processes.
- CIPS: Diploma Level or willing to pursue.
- Textile-related or outsourcing training or experience is beneficial but not essential.
About Us
Founded in 1797, Johnstons of Elgin is an innovative, luxury clothing brand celebrating 225 years of experience in working with the world's finest fibres. Across three centuries, our family-owned company has carefully sourced cashmere and fine woollen fibres from around the world, applying the latest technology and highest quality craft expertise in our very own vertical Scottish mills. Employing over 1,000 staff, our valued employees and communities are at the heart of everything we do, producing unique, high-quality designs that are made to last. Our brand is focused on sustainability, working with natural, renewable, and biodegradable fibres and we are committed to maintaining a minimal environmental footprint.
Johnstons of Elgin is proud to be an equal opportunity employer wholeheartedly supporting the principles of equality and diversity to build an inclusive workforce. Our aim is to embed diversity and inclusion in everything we do to create an environment where our employees feel safe to be their whole authentic self without having to downplay or change parts of their identity. We celebrate diversity in all its forms, which goes beyond those characteristics protected by law to include everything that makes us unique, from our backgrounds and experiences to our personalities and ways of thinking.
We endeavour to provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities and encourage any candidate who requires assistance to contact us. Don't meet every requirement? Studies have shown that women and people of colour are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single requirement or qualification. At Johnstons of Elgin, we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace, so if you are excited about this role but think your experience doesn't align perfectly with the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.
Please note all applicants must be able to provide evidence of their right to remain and take up paid employment in the country the job is based.
Closing date – Friday, 27 February 2026. The interviews will take place on weeks commencing 2 and 9 of March.
Purchasing Co-ordinator in Elgin employer: Johnstons of Elgin
At Johnstons of Elgin, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that values diversity and employee growth. Our part-time Purchasing Co-ordinator role in Elgin provides flexibility, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional development within a historic company committed to sustainability and quality craftsmanship. Join us to be part of a team that celebrates individuality and fosters a collaborative environment where your contributions truly matter.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Purchasing Co-ordinator in Elgin
✨Dive into the Procurement Community
Join online forums and local groups focused on procurement. Websites like CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply) have great communities and resources. Connecting with professionals through these channels can lead to part-time opportunities with companies like Johnstons of Elgin.
✨Networking with a Twist
Don’t just stick to the usual networking events; look for niche procurement workshops or seminars in your area. These are goldmines for part-time roles as they often attract companies looking for talent like us to fill in gaps on short or flexible contracts.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Build a mini portfolio of your procurement projects or experiences. Even if it's part-time, demonstrating your understanding of cost analysis, supplier negotiations, or inventory management can really set you apart when going for a role at Johnstons of Elgin.
✨Check Out Part-Time Job Boards
Keep an eye on job boards that focus specifically on part-time positions in procurement. Websites like Indeed or local classifieds often have hidden gems, so make it a habit to check them out daily for roles that intrigue you, including at Johnstons of Elgin.
We think you need these skills to ace Purchasing Co-ordinator in Elgin
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Negotiation Skills:In procurement, your negotiation skills are key! Make sure to highlight any relevant experience in your CV that shows you’ve successfully worked with suppliers or managed vendor relationships. This might be through previous roles or even projects during your studies—don't hold back!
Understand the Importance of Detail:Being part-time in procurement means you'll need to hit the ground running. Emphasise your detail-oriented approach in your application. Mention any experience with data analysis or reporting as procurement often involves managing contracts and evaluating suppliers based on various KPIs.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Procurement:Your cover letter should illustrate your interest in the procurement field and your ability to learn. Discuss why you're excited about the part-time role at Johnstons of Elgin and how it fits with your career goals. This is your chance to connect your past experiences with what you hope to achieve in procurement!
Highlight Your Availability:Since this is a part-time position, be clear about your availability in your application. Make it easy for Johnstons of Elgin to see when you can work and how you can support their purchasing needs. This will show that you’re not only enthusiastic but also organised and ready to jump in!
How to prepare for a job interview at Johnstons of Elgin
✨Know Your Procurement Basics
Make sure you brush up on key procurement concepts and techniques. Understand things like supplier negotiation, cost-benefit analyses, and the importance of maintaining good relationships with vendors. This foundational knowledge will demonstrate your enthusiasm and readiness for the role at Johnstons of Elgin.
✨Be Ready for Analytical Questions
Procurement roles often involve analysing data to make informed purchasing decisions. Prepare to face some technical questions or case studies that assess your analytical skills. Think through a few scenarios where you've had to use data effectively—this will show off your problem-solving abilities.
✨Show Your Flexibility and Commitment
As it's a part-time role, be prepared to discuss your availability and how you can manage your time efficiently. Highlight any experiences that demonstrate your ability to balance multiple responsibilities or adjust to shifting priorities, which is super valuable in fast-paced environments like Johnstons of Elgin.
✨Pitch Relevant Experiences
Tailor your previous experiences to the procurement field. Have examples ready that showcase your skills in negotiation, vendor management, or even budgeting if applicable. This isn’t just about what you've done but how those experiences make you a great fit for the part-time role at Johnstons of Elgin.
