At a Glance
- Tasks: Plan and purchase packaging components to ensure smooth production.
- Company: Join a friendly, fast-paced operation in a modern distribution centre.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, annual bonus, 25 days holiday, and free daily lunch.
- Other info: Enjoy excellent career growth opportunities and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in supply chain management while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in purchasing packaging and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
12-Month Maternity Cover - Full Time
Location: Kempston
Salary: Competitive + Excellent Benefits
Are you a proactive and organised supply chain professional with a passion for all things packaging? My client is seeking a Packaging Inventory Planner/Buyer to join their friendly and fast-paced operation on a 12-month maternity contract. This is a fantastic opportunity to play a key role in ensuring production runs smoothly by planning, purchasing and managing a diverse range of packaging components. Based at their modern Warehousing & Distribution Centre in Kempston, you'll work closely with suppliers, internal stakeholders and the production planning team to keep everything running like clockwork.
What you’ll be doing
- Planning
- Manage stock levels for a defined range of packaging components to support production schedules.
- Maintain accurate ERP data, including item codes, product structures and new component setups.
- Plan the introduction of new packaging while minimising waste and residual stock.
- Support the resolution of supplier quality or service issues.
- Oversee third-party consignment processes.
- Purchasing
- Raise purchase orders for packaging components using MRP insights and business requirements.
- Liaise with suppliers to ensure quality, service and delivery expectations are met.
- Negotiate pricing and lead times in exceptional circumstances.
- Monitor market trends, risks and opportunities within your category.
- Work with the Packaging Manager to develop and support category strategies.
- Maintain supplier relationship management (SRM) data.
- Specifications & Documentation
- Create and maintain packaging specifications within the Company Document Management System.
- Support artwork revisions and ensure correct packaging codes are applied.
- Secure and upload supplier approvals.
- Assist in maintaining the Component Change Log.
- Contribute to supplier performance measurement and rating.
- General Responsibilities
- Own relevant Change Controls for your category.
- Support monthly and ad-hoc reporting.
- Maintain packaging documents within internal systems.
- Participate in NPD handover meetings regarding packaging needs.
- Provide cover for packaging waste reporting, month-end tasks, consignment processes and redundant stock.
- Work with the Supplier Relationship Manager on packaging-related projects.
What we’re looking for
- Experience purchasing packaging components in a regulated manufacturing environment.
- Strong communication skills and confidence working with suppliers.
- Experience using ERP-based purchasing systems.
- Supplier management experience.
- A detail-focused, commercially aware and self-motivated mindset.
- Experience with pharmaceutical packaging (aluminium, glass, closures) would be an advantage.
- Familiarity with change management processes.
What’s in it for you?
Alongside a competitive salary, my client offers an impressive benefits package designed to support you both professionally and personally:
- Annual salary review plus annual company bonus
- 25 days holiday, with 4 days allocated for Christmas closure, plus bank holidays
- Matched pension scheme at 5% (rising to 6% after 5 years' service, salary exchange)
- Life Assurance at 4x basic salary
- Free daily lunch, plus complimentary tea, coffee and refreshments
- Free onsite parking
If this feels like the right opportunity for you, please APPLY NOW.
Packaging Inventory Planner / Buyer in Kempston employer: Tate Recruitment
Join a dynamic and supportive team as a Customer Service Advisor in the vibrant Old Trafford area of Manchester, where you will play a crucial role in enhancing customer experiences during an exciting growth phase. With flexible working hours, competitive pay, and opportunities for professional development, this organisation prioritises employee well-being and career progression, making it an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Packaging Inventory Planner / Buyer in Kempston
✨Get Involved in Industry Events
Logistics and supply chain are all about networking, so hit up those trade shows and local meetups. Places like the UK's Logistics and Supply Chain conference can be goldmines for connecting with potential employers like Tate Recruitment and learning about the latest trends in the industry.
✨Leverage Online Communities
Join forums and LinkedIn groups specifically for logistics professionals. Share your insights and ask questions to get noticed. Being active in these spaces can help you establish credibility and might just lead to an opportunity at Tate Recruitment!
✨Showcase Your Skills with a Portfolio
Even if it’s a full-time gig, having a portfolio can really set you apart. Include case studies or projects that demonstrate your understanding of supply chain management, logistics software, or solving operational challenges. You’d be surprised at how much this can impress hiring managers.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
Don't forget the power of applying directly through our website! A lot of companies like Tate Recruitment keep job postings exclusive to their sites. This way, you can easily keep track of your applications and ensure your profile is in front of the right people.
We think you need these skills to ace Packaging Inventory Planner / Buyer in Kempston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Supply Chain Savvy:In your CV and cover letter, make sure to highlight your understanding of logistics and supply chain management principles. Mention any relevant courses you've taken or tools you've used, like inventory management software or data analysis platforms, to showcase your skills and keep up with best practices in the industry.
Quantify Your Achievements:When detailing your previous work experience, remember to use numbers wherever possible. Did you improve delivery times by a specific percentage? Did you help reduce costs? These kinds of quantified achievements not only catch the eye but also demonstrate your capability in the logistics sector.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Tate Recruitment:This is your chance to really connect with the team at Tate Recruitment. In your cover letter, express why you're passionate about supply chain logistics and how your goals align with the company’s mission. A little personalisation goes a long way!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you've got any certifications related to logistics or supply chain management—like APICS or Six Sigma—make sure you flaunt them! These show that you're committed to your professional development and can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Tate Recruitment
✨Know Your Logistics Tools
Make sure you're familiar with key logistics software and tools like SAP or Oracle ERP. These are often used in the industry, and being able to demonstrate your knowledge or experience with them can really set you apart during your interview with Tate Recruitment.
✨Perfect Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect to tackle scenarios that showcase your problem-solving skills. Think about past experiences where you've had to optimise supply chains or handle logistics challenges. Have a few examples ready to discuss how you made decisions that led to improvements.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Supply chain roles heavily rely on teamwork and communication. Be prepared to discuss how you've collaborated with others in previous roles. Maybe share a time when you coordinated with a team to resolve a logistical hiccup. This can show Tate Recruitment that you're a team player!
✨Understand the Big Picture
Be ready to talk about the broader logistics and supply chain trends. Having insights into current challenges in the industry, like sustainability or lead times, can impress the interviewers at Tate Recruitment. Show them you’re not just focused on the day-to-day but also have a strategic mindset!
