We’re looking for an experienced and strategic Purchasing and Inventory Manager to lead procurement, supplier relationships, and stock management across our personal care manufacturing operations. You’ll collaborate cross-functionally to forecast demand, optimise inventory levels, and drive cost-effective purchasing strategies that support efficient, uninterrupted production.
Responsibilities
* Supplier Management: Identify, evaluate, and maintain strong relationships with reliable suppliers across raw materials, packaging, and production goods.
* Purchasing Strategy: Develop and execute purchasing strategies to secure high-quality materials at competitive prices.
* Inventory Management: Manage stock levels to ensure optimal availability, minimising shortages, excess stock, and waste.
* Warehouse Oversight: Oversee warehouse utilisation to support efficient storage and material flow.
* Contract Negotiation: Negotiate pricing, contracts, and commercial terms to drive cost efficiencies.
* Quality Assurance: Partner with technical teams to ensure all materials meet quality standards and regulatory requirements.
* Forecasting & Budgeting: Collaborate cross-functionally to forecast demand and manage purchasing within budget.
* Supply Chain Coordination: Ensure timely delivery of materials and proactively resolve supply chain issues.
* Compliance: Maintain adherence to company policies and UK regulations, including safety, labelling, and sustainability.
* Reporting & Analysis: Provide regular insights on purchasing performance, supplier effectiveness, and cost savings.
* Team Leadership: Lead and develop the purchasing team, driving efficiency and continuous improvement.
Experience and Knowledge
* 4 – 5 years’ experience in a purchasing, procurement or supply chain role, ideally within a manufacturing environment.
* Strong understanding of inventory management, demand forecasting and stock control.
* Experience working with Bills of Materials (BOMs), MRP or inventory management systems.
* Proven supplier management and negotiation skills with experience securing competitive commercial terms.
* Previous team leadership or management experience.
* Highly numerate with strong analytical, organisational and problem-solving skills.
* Proficient in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, with strong system skills.
* Ability to manage multiple priorities, work independently and drive process improvements.
* Flexible mindset and willingness to support wider operations when required.
* 37.5 hour week; Monday – Friday; 8am to 4pm
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