At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement processes and build strong supplier relationships to drive efficiency.
- Company: Dynamic company in Colchester focused on growth and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, profile-related bonus, and supportive work hours.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a fast-paced environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by optimising purchasing strategies and improving supplier performance.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement with strong negotiation and analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
- We are seeking a highly motivated
- Purchasing Manager for our client based in
Colchester.
You will be responsible for working with suppliers to drive a positive outcome to consistently improve their EBITDA.
This includes procurement of products at competitive rates, ensuring consistent supply of components, Maintaining and building strong working relationships with existing and new suppliers and negotiating competitive terms.
The purchasing manager will drive consistency and efficiency in purchasing processes and systems, whilst collaborating with operations and engineering to support production planning and efficient stock control
Responsibilities
- Own and manage the end to end procurement process, maintaining procurement policy and standards
- Raise and manage all purchase orders, ensuring orders are placed accurately, on time, and in line with demand
- Manage supplier selection, onboarding and approval, ensuring SLA’s are in place with top suppliers
- Manage supplier performance, conducting annual reviews and resolving supplier issues by tracking performance against SLA standards.
- Manage and monitor cost prices, identifying opportunities for cost saving to increase GP, and mitigating price increases
- Take responsibility for purchasing and other relevant budgets
- Management of IT systems, including maintaining accurate lead times, cost prices and other relevant data within the ERP system
- Source and purchase and capital equipment requirements and services
- Manage the end to end Far East procurement process for offshored suppliers including import paperwork based on projected stock usage and any forward orders
- Onsite supplier visits to both UK-based and overseas suppliers
- Attend trade shows
Requirements
- Proven experience in a Purchasing Manager or senior procurement role within a fast-moving or growing business. An industrial, assembly or automotive background is ideal
- Demonstrated ability to manage purchasing administration while delivering strategic improvements.
- A self-starter with the drive and initiative to lead the function independently.
- Track record of delivering savings, improving supplier performance, and implementing effective procurement strategies.
- Strong commercial awareness with excellent negotiation and analytical skills.
- Hands-on, adaptable, and proactive approach—equally comfortable with strategy and day-to-day tasks.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Familiarity with ERP systems and procurement software.
- Professional qualifications (e. g., CIPS) desirable but not essential
Benefits
- Profile related Bonus
Hours
7.30am - 4.30pm, 30mins for lunch.
Purchasing Manager in Bristol employer: UBT
Join a dynamic and supportive team as a Technical Sales Engineer in the thriving MEP sector, where your expertise will be valued and your contributions recognised. With a family-feel culture, excellent benefits including travel expenses, on-site parking, and regular team incentives, this growing business offers a unique opportunity for professional development and meaningful impact. Embrace the chance to work within a well-established company that prioritises employee growth and fosters strong relationships across the industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Purchasing Manager in Bristol
✨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 UBT.
✨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 Purchasing Manager in Bristol
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 UBT:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to UBT. 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 UBT.
How to prepare for a job interview at UBT
✨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 UBT!
✨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 UBT. 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 UBT's culture.
