Trainee Purchasing Coordinator in Manchester

To ensure that all purchase orders are fulfilled in an accurate, timely, and commercially viable manner, while supporting the effective acquisition of products and contributing to efficient stock control and purchasing administration. This role is designed to provide ongoing training and development to build experience and a long-term career in purchasing.

Key Responsibilities and Accountabilities

• Purchasing & Administration
  • Purchase furniture, accessories, and related products as required to support order fulfilment.
  • Undertake purchasing administration in line with customer shortfalls, product reorder levels, and instructions from the line manager.
  • Review and create purchase orders and contracts, ensuring compliance with company and departmental policies.
  • Maintain accurate purchasing and inventory records within internal systems.
• Systems & Stock Control
  • Maintain and update inventory databases, including WMS and Sage 200 systems.
  • Collaborate closely with the warehouse team to ensure effective stock management in line with agreed stock value targets.
• Collaboration & Communication
  • Work collaboratively with Sales and Customer Service teams to maximise operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.
  • Escalate any issues relating to delivery, quality, pricing, or terms of sale to the Purchasing and Supply Chain Manager in a timely manner.
• Reporting & Continuous Improvement
  • Update and understand purchasing reports as required, including KPI dashboards and supplier scorecards.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives within the purchasing and supply chain function.
• General
  • Carry out any other reasonable tasks as requested by the senior management team.

Health, Safety & Information Security

The post holder must:

• Comply at all times with health and safety legislation, company procedures, and safe working practices.
• Report any health and safety concerns or contraventions to a manager immediately.
• Adhere to all information security policies and best practices in line with ISO 9001, 14001, 45001, and 27001 standards.
• Report any information security incidents or risks via the established reporting process or to a manager.

Skills, Knowledge & Qualifications

Essential Skills and Attributes

• Excellent interpersonal and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to exercise tact, courtesy, and professionalism when dealing with suppliers and colleagues.
• Strong organisational skills with high attention to detail.
• Excellent time management skills with the ability to meet deadlines.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (or equivalent) and inventory management software.

Desirable

• Previous experience in a purchasing, supply chain, or administrative role (not essential training provided).
• An interest in developing a career within purchasing or supply chain management.

What We Can Offer

• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Competitive benefits package
• Sponsored subscriptions and professional memberships
• Continual professional and occupational training and development
• A friendly and supportive working environment
• Hybrid working model (3 days office-based, 2 days home-based)

Additional Information

This job description is intended as a general guide to the duties of the role. Flexibility is required to ensure the needs of the business are met.