At a Glance
- Tasks: Support procurement activities and ensure smooth operations in a fast-paced environment.
- Company: Join Pet’s Choice, a leading pet-care manufacturer with a diverse brand portfolio.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, develop skills, and enjoy a supportive learning environment.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for growth in the thriving pet-care industry.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in procurement while working with passionate pet lovers.
- Qualifications: Previous experience in purchasing or administration and strong attention to detail.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 44000 £ per year.
Company Overview
Pet’s Choice is a forever‑evolving FMCG branded pet manufacturer and supplier. As one of the fastest‑growing producers in the pet‑care industry, we’re committed to elevating our large, diverse portfolio of trusted brands, including Webbox, Bob Martin, Felight and Meatiful. Our products range from food, treats, toys, accessories, and healthcare, giving us a uniquely broad presence across the pet‑care landscape. We manufacture and supply into a wide range of channels — Grocery, Discounter, Wholesale, eCommerce, Pet Specialist, and Export markets — ensuring our brands reach millions of pet owners across the UK and beyond.
Role Overview
We are looking for an enthusiastic individual who is eager to begin their career in procurement and motivated by continuous learning and development. This role is ideal for someone who is proactive, organised, and detail‑oriented, with a strong interest in administration, purchasing and supply chain operations. As a Buying Assistant, you will support our Manufacturing Senior Buyer in the smooth execution of day‑to‑day procurement activities. You will also act as an expeditor, helping to ensure operational efficiency by coordinating the flow of work between departments and tracking progress through each stage of the process. This position is well‑suited to someone with strong administrative skills, a keen eye for data accuracy, and a desire to grow within a fast‑paced manufacturing environment.
Responsibilities
- Procurement Support: Assist the procurement team with daily operational tasks including supplier communications, documentation, and follow-ups.
- Order Processing: Input purchase orders accurately into the system, chase and confirm delivery dates, ensure all records are updated accordingly.
- Inventory Management: Monitor stock levels, support inventory reconciliation, and help maintain optimal inventory level. Track orders and ensure they are fulfilled in a timely manner and identify and mitigate potential risks in the supply chain. Book haulage pickups according to schedule.
- Production schedules: Work closely with production planning to ensure all goods delivered on time for the plan.
- Data Reporting & Analysis: Generate and maintain procurement reports; assist in analysing purchasing trends and supplier performance. Ensure procurement systems and databases are kept up to date with accurate information.
- Administrative Duties: Perform general administrative tasks such as filing, document control, and scheduling meetings. Support the team in interpreting procurement data to identify cost-saving opportunities and process improvements.
Skills, Qualifications & Experience
- Previous experience in a purchasing, procurement, or administrative role.
- Strong attention to detail.
- Organisational skills.
- Competent with Microsoft Excel.
- Comfortable communicating by telephone.
- Eager to learn and develop a career in Buying.
Buying Assistant in Blackburn employer: Pets Choice Ltd
As a Purchase Manager at our Blackburn location, you will thrive in a dynamic hybrid work environment that promotes flexibility and collaboration. Our company values employee growth, offering continuous development opportunities and a supportive culture that encourages innovation and teamwork. With a focus on maintaining excellent customer service while managing inventory effectively, you'll be part of a dedicated team that prioritises both professional fulfilment and work-life balance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Buying Assistant in Blackburn
✨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 Pets Choice 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 Buying Assistant in Blackburn
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 Pets Choice Ltd:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Pets Choice 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 Pets Choice Ltd.
How to prepare for a job interview at Pets Choice 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 Pets Choice 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 Pets Choice 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 Pets Choice Ltd's culture.
