Procurement Assistant

The Pickering Group Ltd is a multinational group of electronics manufacturers headquartered in Clacton-on-Sea, Essex in the United Kingdom with operations worldwide. The Group is comprised of three companies: Pickering Electronics, who manufacture reed relays; Pickering Interfaces, who manufacture switching systems; and Pickering Connect, who manufacture the supporting cables and connectors. Pickering employs around 600 people across two manufacturing facilities in the UK and the Czech Republic, and over nine direct sales and support offices located throughout Asia, Europe, and North America. All three companies have a reputation for producing innovative high-quality products for the test and measurement industry, which focuses on the production of equipment designed to identify, measure and regulate manufacturing processes.

This is a market that is seeing considerable growth due to the rate of new technology and innovation, global regulation, and the growing complexity of electronic products.

What You Can Expect as a Procurement Assistant:

The Procurement Department is responsible for sourcing goods and services that support the daily operations of the business. Reporting to the Procurement Manager, the Procurement Assistant ensures the efficient and timely acquisition of both direct and indirect purchases. This position is integral to creating and maintaining accurate procurement records, liaising with suppliers, and collaborating with cross‑functional teams to meet the company’s needs.

Duties and Key Responsibilities:

• Procurement Management: Issue and manage RFQs for electronic components, review and analyse quotations from suppliers. Process purchase requests via X3, MRP suggestions, intercompany orders, and non‑stock part requests. Ensure accurate data entry into the X3 ERP system for order acknowledgements and updates. Run MRP functions on X3, addressing procurement needs as required. Manage the "purchaseorders@pickeringtest.com" inbox, ensuring enquiries are addressed in a timely manner. Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, ensuring effective communication and promptly resolving any issues related to deliveries, pricing, or order discrepancies. Work with internal teams including production, R&D, and engineering to update them on order status and delays. Attend daily meetings to address potential challenges and ensure alignment with overall operations.
• Procurement Process Improvement: Assist with identifying opportunities for process improvements and cost optimisation, using data gathered from suppliers and internal teams. Support the Procurement Manager with initiatives to streamline purchasing processes and enhance procurement efficiency.
• General Support: Provide general support to the Procurement team with ad‑hoc tasks to ensure the smooth operation of the department. Maintain accurate records in the ERP system, including details on new parts, supplier information, manufacturing part numbers, and other essential data, ensuring the system remains up-to-date.

Required Qualifications:

• Experience: 2+ years of experience in a similar role; full in‑house training will be provided.
• Technical Skills: Knowledge of Microsoft Office and familiarity with ERP systems (Sage X3 preferred).

Preferred Qualifications:

• CIPS Level 3 or higher (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply) is highly desirable but not always required.

Key Skills:

• Attention to detail: Exceptional attention to detail is required to ensure all procurement records, orders, and documentation are accurate and error‑free.
• Ability to prioritise tasks & work under pressure: Capable of prioritising tasks efficiently, managing tight deadlines, and maintaining accuracy under pressure.
• Ability to Learn and Develop Within the Role: Ability to continuously grow and develop within the role.
• Problem Solving: Ability to address issues such as delivery delays, stock shortages, or discrepancies in order specifications.
• Team Player: Ability to work collaboratively with cross‑functional teams, including production, finance, and stores.

What You Can Expect from Pickering:

• 25 days annual leave, plus bank holidays.
• Buying and selling holiday. Employees can buy up to 10 days.
• Life Insurance x4 annual salary (Capped at £50k per annum).
• Corporate membership at the local gym and spa.
• A thorough induction program, including a Pickering Pal being assigned to you to ensure you feel welcome and to check in on you during your probation.
• Regular reviews and performance related pay increases (subject to business conditions).
• Employee wellbeing and mental health support through our partnership with Mind.
• Wellbeing Program with Spa Medical.
• Paid company social events such as a summer festival and Christmas party.
• Training programmes.
• Sponsoring further education.
• Salary sacrifice car scheme.
• Free tea, coffee, and fresh fruit.

This role description is intended to provide a general overview of the role and its responsibilities. It is not exhaustive and may be subject to change to meet the needs of Pickering.