At a Glance
- Tasks: Support procurement by managing purchase orders and supplier relationships.
- Company: Join a dynamic team focused on efficient purchasing processes.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience in procurement with potential for career growth.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with opportunities to improve processes and learn.
- Why this job: Be part of a crucial function that keeps the business running smoothly.
- Qualifications: Experience in purchasing or supply chain, strong Excel skills required.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
Our client is looking for a Purchasing Assistant to join their team and support the smooth running of their procurement function. This role will be responsible for managing purchasing activities, maintaining supplier relationships, monitoring stock levels, and ensuring materials are available when required.
Key Responsibilities
- Create and process purchase orders accurately and in line with company procedures
- Monitor order progress, delivery dates, and resolve any supplier issues or discrepancies
- Maintain strong working relationships with suppliers and internal teams
- Support stock control activities by monitoring inventory levels and assisting with replenishment
- Maintain accurate purchasing records and update systems with relevant information
- Assist with reporting, data analysis, and identifying opportunities for process improvements
Skills & Experience Required
- Previous experience in purchasing, procurement, supply chain, or a similar administrative role
- Experience working with suppliers and managing purchase orders
- Good working knowledge of Microsoft Excel and data management
- Strong organisational skills with excellent attention to detail
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities in a busy environment
- Strong communication skills, both written and verbal
- Experience using ERP systems
- CIPS qualification or willingness to work towards one
Purchasing Assistant employer: KPI Recruiting Ltd
KPI Recruiting is an exceptional employer for those looking to thrive in the Engineering and Manufacturing recruitment sector. With a strong focus on employee development, our supportive work culture fosters growth through structured training and mentorship opportunities, allowing you to take ownership of your desk while being backed by a successful £45m recruitment business. Located in Sutton, you'll benefit from a vibrant community and access to a diverse range of high-value clients, making this an ideal environment for ambitious recruiters seeking meaningful and rewarding careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Purchasing Assistant
✨Get Savvy with Industry Perks
Join procurement and purchasing forums or groups where pros hang out, like CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply). They'll share the inside scoop on job openings that might not show up on traditional job boards!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Consider creating a portfolio that outlines your achievements in procurement, like cost-saving initiatives or supplier management strategies. Having tangible evidence of your skills can really set you apart when applying to companies like KPI Recruiting Ltd.
✨Tap into Your Network
Leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in procurement—follow relevant hashtags, join groups, and engage in discussions. This is a great way to get noticed by potential employers before they even post a job!
✨Keep Your Eyes on Job Boards
With full-time positions, timing can be everything. Set alerts on job boards specifically for procurement roles. Don't wait for a job posting to close; apply through our website as soon as you see a fit—being proactive can give you the edge!
We think you need these skills to ace Purchasing Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Procurement Know-How:When you're crafting your CV, make sure to highlight any procurement-specific skills you've got. Talk about your experience with supplier negotiations, cost analysis, or inventory management. If you’ve used software like SAP or Oracle, don’t forget to mention that too – it shows you know your way around the tech side of things!
Quantify Your Achievements:In procurement, numbers matter. Use your CV and cover letter to showcase any quantifiable achievements you've made in reducing costs or improving efficiencies. For example, mentioning that you helped save 20% on purchasing costs last year is way more impressive than just saying you managed the budget!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to KPI Recruiting Ltd:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to KPI Recruiting Ltd. Research the company’s procurement strategy, mention how your skills align with their goals, and share your enthusiasm for contributing to their success. This personal touch can really set you apart from the crowd!
Professional Certs Can Go a Long Way:If you've got any procurement-related certifications, such as CIPS or APICS, make sure they're front and centre on your CV. These qualifications show you're serious about your career in procurement and are committed to continuous learning. It’s a great way to signal your expertise and dedication to potential employers like KPI Recruiting Ltd.
How to prepare for a job interview at KPI Recruiting Ltd
✨Show Off Your Negotiation Skills
In procurement, strong negotiation skills are key. Be ready to share examples of past negotiations where you've successfully saved costs or improved supplier terms. We want to hear how you approached those situations and the strategies you used to achieve positive outcomes!
✨Know Your Tools
Make sure you’re familiar with procurement software and tools commonly used in the industry, such as SAP Ariba or Coupa. Come prepared to discuss any experiences you've had with these tools or similar platforms, as we need someone who can hit the ground running at KPI Recruiting Ltd!
✨Understand Market Trends
As a procurement professional, being aware of market trends can set you apart. Brush up on recent developments in supply chain management or procurement best practices and think about how they could impact your role at KPI Recruiting Ltd. Bringing a current perspective will show your enthusiasm for the industry.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Player Attitude
A full-time position means you'll be working closely with various teams. Be prepared to discuss how you collaborate with others, manage conflicts, and build relationships with stakeholders. Sharing anecdotes about past teamwork experiences will highlight your ability to fit into KPI Recruiting Ltd's culture.
