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- Tasks: Support procurement by managing suppliers and ensuring product quality.
- Company: Join the UK's largest packaging distributor focused on innovative solutions and customer service.
- Benefits: Enjoy up to 27 days holiday, flexible benefits, and a contributory pension scheme.
- Why this job: Gain valuable experience with full training and clear career progression in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just a willingness to learn and grow.
- Other info: Employee discounts, health benefits, and a referral scheme with cash rewards.
The predicted salary is between 18400 - 27600 £ per year.
Assistant Buyer
Location : Wakefield
Package : Basic salary up to £23,000 plus bonus & flexible benefits package including up to 27 days holiday (Plus additional annual leave purchasing scheme)
Sector : Packaging distribution
The Company
We, the UK’s largest packaging distributor have an exciting opportunity for an Assistant Buyer to join our procurement team based in Wakefield. We are a committed equal opportunities employer that champions ‘dignity in the workplace’. Our focus is to provide customers with fully integrated and innovative packaging solutions, augmented by outstanding customer service. Our procurement functionality is a vital part of our solution offering and we continually invest in the professional development of our team including CIPS accredited training.
The Assistant Buyer Role
Working as a member of our local procurement team, the Assistant Buyer role will support the site at which you are based whilst upholding the company wide National procurement strategy. Your appointment to this position will be integral to the overall success of our business, as you will be instrumental in helping to coordinate the management and development of the regional supplier base.
Please note no prior experience within procurement or purchasing is necessary as full training on systems & products can be offered, with a clear pathway for development provided.
Assistant Buyer Key Duties
- Helping to manage a large portfolio of suppliers
- Sourcing and negotiating with existing suppliers, challenging prices where relevant
- Ensuring products adhere to quality, service and best‑practice initiatives
- Liaising with sales & logistics internally, ensuring good communication at all times
- Managing performance & forging good working relationships with the supplier base
- Assisting with tendering activity, product enquiries and ad‑hoc project work
- Purchasing of standard and bespoke stock items
- Carrying out supplier benchmarking activities
- Reporting and statistical analysis of product usage
- Upholding company procurement strategy and adhering to best practice.
- Maximising profit and minimising risk to the Business as much as possible
- Stock control and office administration activities
- 25 days annual leave (rising to 27 days with service) plus all public / bank holidays
- Additional Holiday purchasing scheme (run annually)
- Contributory pension scheme
- Free parking at the majority of our site locations
- Annual (company paid) volunteering day
- Range of company cars or cash allowance (including hybrid / electric) for qualifying job roles
- Employee assistance program to support & advise with well‑being & any issues
- Extensive range of training / development & potential progression opportunities
- Employee discount scheme (discounts on several major retail / leisure brands)
- Simply Health / Dental Cover option or BUPA cover for qualifying roles
- Enhanced HR policies relating to various employee rights & entitlements
- Long service awards (5-40 years)
- Charitable giving options
- Financial support with eye‑tests / purchasing glasses (DSE users only)
- O2 Mobile discount scheme (up to 25% off)
- Candidate referral scheme (awards £750 for referring successful applicants to Macfarlane job vacancies)
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Assistant Buyer employer: MacFarlane Group
Contact Detail:
MacFarlane Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Buyer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the packaging distribution sector. Understanding the industry trends, key players, and challenges can give you an edge during interviews and help you engage in meaningful conversations with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in procurement and purchasing. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with others in the field. This can provide insights into the role and may even lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your analytical skills by preparing examples of how you've used data to make decisions or improve processes in previous roles. This will show your potential employer that you can handle reporting and statistical analysis effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the company’s procurement strategy and values. Being able to discuss how your personal values align with theirs during the interview can make a strong impression and show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their success.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Buyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant skills and experiences that align with the Assistant Buyer role. Focus on any experience in procurement, supplier management, or negotiation, even if it's from previous jobs or internships.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention why you are interested in the packaging distribution sector and how your skills can contribute to their procurement team.
Highlight Transferable Skills: Even if you lack direct experience in procurement, emphasise transferable skills such as communication, analytical thinking, and relationship management. These are crucial for the Assistant Buyer position.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects attention to detail, which is important in procurement roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at MacFarlane Group
✨Research the Company
Before your interview, take some time to learn about the company’s values, mission, and recent developments. Understanding their focus on innovative packaging solutions and customer service will help you align your answers with their goals.
✨Prepare for Common Questions
Think about how your skills and experiences relate to the responsibilities of an Assistant Buyer. Be ready to discuss your approach to supplier management, negotiation tactics, and how you would handle challenges in procurement.
✨Show Enthusiasm for Learning
Since no prior experience is necessary, emphasise your eagerness to learn and grow within the role. Mention any relevant coursework or training you’ve undertaken that demonstrates your commitment to professional development.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork Skills
The role involves liaising with various departments, so be prepared to share examples of how you’ve successfully worked in a team. Highlight your communication skills and ability to forge good working relationships with others.
