Purchasing Manager in Colchester, Essex

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 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:

• Salary: £50,000 - £60,000 Profile related Bonus.
• Hours: 7.30am - 4.30pm, 30mins for lunch.