Junior Procurement Manager - 12 Month Contract in Essex

We're working exclusively with an established, global home interiors organisation currently seeking a Junior Procurement Manager to join their Supply Chain & Operations team on a 12 month contract. This is a well-regarded business within its specialist sector, known for its strong operational standards, collaborative culture, and focus on delivering high-quality products globally. This is a varied, hands-on procurement role with a strong focus on coordinating New Product Introduction (NPI) and project-based purchasing activity. It's an excellent opportunity for someone looking to develop their career in procurement and supply chain within a fast-paced, international environment, working closely with internal teams and global manufacturing partners.

Responsibilities

• Managing end-to-end processing of project and new product orders, from order placement through to shipment.
• Coordinating closely with internal stakeholders and suppliers to manage timelines, priorities, and constraints.
• Tracking order progress including samples, tooling, first production runs, and inspections.
• Monitoring delivery timelines, proactively identifying risks, and supporting resolution to prevent delays.
• Maintaining accurate order and delivery data within internal systems and providing status updates to stakeholders.
• Acting as a key procurement contact for new product and project activity across multiple departments.
• Collaborating with international manufacturing partners to ensure deadlines and supply requirements are met.
• Supporting supply risk assessments and contributing to mitigation planning.
• Providing regular reporting, updates, and exception management to support operational performance.
• Supporting process improvements, operational projects, and departmental reporting requirements.

Qualifications

Given the global nature of the organisation, the role involves regular collaboration with international suppliers and cross-functional internal teams, offering excellent exposure to end-to-end supply chain operations. You'll have experience in a procurement, purchasing, supply chain, order management, or operations support role, or strong administrative experience within an operational environment. You'll be highly organised, detail-focused, and proactive, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and communicate effectively with both internal stakeholders and external suppliers.

• Experience in procurement, supply chain, purchasing, or order coordination.
• Strong Excel skills, including pivot tables and lookup functions.
• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong communication and stakeholder coordination abilities.
• A proactive approach to tracking orders and managing timelines.
• Problem-solving skills and a continuous improvement mindset.
• The ability to work collaboratively within a team environment.

Experience supporting new product introduction, project coordination, or working with international suppliers would be beneficial but is not essential.

Why Apply?

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone looking to build or develop their career in procurement within a global organisation. You'll gain hands-on experience supporting new product launches, working with international suppliers, and contributing to critical supply chain operations. The role offers hybrid working, career development opportunities, and the chance to work within a collaborative and supportive team environment.