At a Glance
- Tasks: Support purchasing operations and manage stock orders in a dynamic retail environment.
- Company: Join a leading retail company with a vibrant team culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid work model, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Enjoy a flexible work schedule with one day from home each week.
- Why this job: Be a key player in a fast-paced team and make an impact on business operations.
- Qualifications: 1-2 years in purchasing or supply chain, advanced Excel skills required.
The predicted salary is between 31000 - 31000 £ per year.
We are currently seeking a proactive Purchasing Assistant to join our client’s head office team on a 15-month maternity cover contract to start in September 2025. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone with purchasing or supply chain experience to play a crucial role in supporting business operations across retail, ecommerce, and direct-to-consumer channels.
About You:
- 1–2 years' experience in a Purchasing, Supply Chain or similar analytical role.
- Confident using Excel at an advanced level.
- Comfortable working across departments and communicating effectively.
- Familiarity with Microsoft Dynamics D365 is advantageous.
- Adaptable, detail-focused, and able to work both independently and as part of a wider team.
Key Responsibilities:
- Place and amend stock orders weekly based on trends and forecasts.
- Maintain accurate delivery dates in internal systems and liaise with customer service teams.
- Manage inbound container bookings, deliveries, and proof of delivery documentation.
- Ensure up-to-date product information including weights, dimensions, and pricing.
- Track and manage out-of-stock items and provide timely updates to reduce customer impact.
- Identify overstocks and support clearance planning with outlet teams.
- Assist with new product launches, phase-outs, and SKU setup.
- Help coordinate and support regular stock counts, including occasional overnight travel to stores (approx. 10 per year).
- Ensure compliance with packaging and product certifications.
- Collaborate with multiple teams including sales, warehouse, and customer service.
Full time (40 hours per week) with 1 day working from home (Fridays). Salary: £31,000 per annum.
Purchasing Assistant employer: Parkside Recruitment
Join a forward-thinking international company that values integrity, professionalism, and a balanced approach to employee relations. With a strong emphasis on employee growth and a supportive work culture, this role offers the unique advantage of remote flexibility transitioning to hybrid working, allowing you to maintain a healthy work-life balance while contributing to meaningful organizational change. As an HRBP, you'll have the opportunity to work closely with leadership, ensuring your voice is heard and your contributions are valued in a dynamic environment focused on practical solutions.
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 Parkside Recruitment.
✨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 Parkside Recruitment:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Parkside Recruitment. 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 Parkside Recruitment.
How to prepare for a job interview at Parkside Recruitment
✨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 Parkside Recruitment!
✨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 Parkside Recruitment. 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 Parkside Recruitment's culture.
