Assistant Buyer

We are currently recruiting for an Assistant Buyer to join a busy and established manufacturing business based in Lytham. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with some previous purchasing or buying experience who is looking to develop their skills and build a long-term career within procurement.

Working as part of the purchasing function, you will support the day-to-day buying process, liaising with suppliers and internal departments to ensure materials, components and other requirements are available when needed.

The Role

You will work closely with the Production, Warehouse, Quality and Finance teams, as well as the Production Planner, to help maintain a smooth and efficient supply of materials. Your responsibilities will include:

• Raising and managing purchase orders in line with company procedures
• Working with the Production Planner to understand the 12-week production plan
• Placing orders in advance to ensure materials and components are available when required
• Checking purchase orders have the correct authorisation
• Following up outstanding purchase orders and supplier deliveries
• Liaising with suppliers regarding prices, availability, lead times and delivery dates
• Maintaining accurate purchasing and supplier records
• Keeping supplier information up to date, including contact details, payment terms, MOQs and lead times
• Supporting the development of just-in-time purchasing processes
• Monitoring stock requirements and helping to avoid shortages or excessive stockholding
• Raising purchase orders for production and non-stock requirements
• Supporting supplier meetings and maintaining positive supplier relationships
• Working closely with Production, Warehouse and other internal departments to resolve supply issues
• Updating the purchasing system/ERP system with accurate information
• Providing general administrative support to the purchasing function

About You

We are looking for someone who has some previous experience in buying, purchasing, procurement or supply chain and is keen to take the next step in their career. You don't need to be an experienced Buyer; this role would suit someone who has gained some purchasing experience and is looking for an opportunity to develop and progress. Ideally, you will have:

• Previous experience in a buying, purchasing or procurement environment
• Experience within manufacturing, engineering or a similar environment would be advantageous
• Good communication and negotiation skills
• Strong attention to detail
• Good organisational and time-management skills
• The ability to manage multiple orders and priorities
• Good IT skills and confidence using Excel and computerised systems
• A proactive approach to following up orders and resolving issues
• The ability to build good relationships with suppliers and colleagues
• A willingness to learn and develop within the purchasing function

What we're looking for

This is not a senior Buyer position. We are looking for someone who understands the basics of purchasing and supplier management but wants to develop their knowledge and experience further.