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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Coordinate purchasing and supply chain operations in a dynamic manufacturing environment.
- Company: Established manufacturing business with a modern production site in Knowsley.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and opportunities for career growth.
- Why this job: Take ownership of purchasing decisions and make a real impact on the supply chain.
- Qualifications: Experience in supply chain or coordination roles; strong IT and communication skills.
- Other info: Join a growing company with visibility and influence across the supply chain.
The predicted salary is between 34000 - 36000 £ per year.
An established manufacturing business in Knowsley is looking to appoint an experienced Purchasing & Supply Coordinator to support its inbound supply chain and purchasing operations at a modern production site. This opportunity is suited to a capable business support or supply chain professional who is comfortable working in a busy, deadline-driven office environment and taking ownership of purchasing decisions based on data and demand.
The Role
Working as part of a wider supply chain function, the successful candidate will be responsible for coordinating materials planning, supplier purchasing, and inbound logistics to support production and commercial requirements. Key responsibilities will include:
- Executing weekly and monthly materials planning cycles and raising purchase orders aligned to stock, production plans, and forecast demand
- Managing the inbound open order book, including international suppliers and containerised sea freight
- Coordinating with freight forwarders and external logistics partners to ensure on-time delivery
- Investigating and resolving material or supplier non-conformances with internal stakeholders
- Supporting the coordination of packaging artwork between internal teams and external suppliers
- Monitoring and replenishing stock across external warehouses and third-party logistics providers
- Producing regular stock, availability, and supply chain performance reports
Essential Experience & Skills
- Experience working in a busy office environment within a business support, supply chain, or coordination role (this role is not suitable for graduates or junior-level candidates)
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with internal and external stakeholders at varying levels
- Strong IT skills, including Outlook, Word, and Excel, with confidence producing basic reports using VLOOKUPs, Pivot Tables, SUMIF(S) and similar functions
- Numerically and data minded, with the ability to independently make purchasing decisions based on stock levels, production plans, and sales forecasts
- Highly organised with strong time management skills, able to manage multiple priorities simultaneously and meet deadlines
Desirable / Advantageous
- Previous experience within manufacturing, FMCG, or supply chain environments
- Experience coordinating or managing global sea freight movements
- Exposure to supply or demand planning activities
- Experience using Microsoft Dynamics / Business Central or another cloud-based ERP system
This role offers a strong opportunity to join a growing manufacturing business where you will have real ownership, visibility, and impact across the supply chain. Apply now for immediate consideration.
Purchasing & Supply Chain Coordinator employer: Robert Walters
Contact Detail:
Robert Walters Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Purchasing & Supply Chain Coordinator
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the manufacturing and supply chain sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about asking for introductions. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its supply chain processes. Familiarise yourself with their products and any recent news. We want you to show them you’re genuinely interested and ready to contribute from day one!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Since this role involves engaging with various stakeholders, we suggest doing mock interviews with friends or family. This will help you articulate your experience and how it aligns with the job requirements.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us. Let’s get you that Purchasing & Supply Chain Coordinator role!
We think you need these skills to ace Purchasing & Supply Chain Coordinator
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Purchasing & Supply Chain Coordinator role. Highlight relevant experience in supply chain management and any specific skills that match the job description, like your IT skills or experience with international suppliers.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention your experience in busy office environments and how you’ve successfully managed purchasing decisions based on data.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since excellent communication is key for this role, make sure to demonstrate your written and verbal skills throughout your application. Use clear, concise language and ensure there are no typos or errors.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of being noticed. It’s quick and easy, and we can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Robert Walters
✨Know Your Numbers
Brush up on your numerical skills and be ready to discuss how you've used data in past roles. Be prepared to explain how you’ve made purchasing decisions based on stock levels and forecasts, as this will show your analytical mindset.
✨Master the Art of Communication
Since you'll be engaging with various stakeholders, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Think of examples where you've successfully communicated with suppliers or internal teams, especially when resolving issues or coordinating logistics.
✨Get Familiar with Supply Chain Jargon
Make sure you understand key terms related to supply chain management, such as 'inbound logistics', 'open order book', and 'containerised sea freight'. This will help you speak confidently about the role and demonstrate your industry knowledge.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Prepare to discuss how you manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines. Share specific examples from your previous roles where your organisational skills made a difference, especially in a busy office environment.
