We are recruiting on behalf of a well-established, forward thinking business in Peterlee who is looking for an experienced Purchasing Manager to join their team on a full-time, permanent basis. This is an excellent opportunity for a commercially focused procurement professional to take ownership of purchasing strategy within a fast-paced, high-volume environment.
The role is key to driving cost-effective purchasing, maintaining supply continuity, managing supplier relationships, and supporting business growth. You will lead strategic sourcing and procurement, balancing commercial performance with operational efficiency and risk management.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Develop and implement purchasing strategies that align with business objectives and supply chain requirements, driving efficiency and value
2. Lead sourcing activities, tender processes, and supplier selection to secure competitive pricing and maximise cost-saving opportunities
3. Negotiate contracts, monitor supplier performance, and manage relationships to ensure compliance, risk mitigation, and high service levels
4. Maintain continuity of supply while ensuring products meet quality, regulatory, and ethical standards
5. Oversee purchasing budgets, track cost changes, manage rebates, and analyse procurement data and KPIs to support informed decision-making
6. Lead, coach, and develop the purchasing team to foster collaboration, high performance, and professional growth
7. Work closely with finance, commercial, sales, and operations teams to support forecasting, demand planning, inventory management, and new product development initiatives
About You
8. Experience in fast-moving procurement or FMCG environments
9. Strong negotiation, commercial, and analytical skills
10. Skilled in managing supplier performance and risk
11. Leadership and stakeholder management experience
12. Knowledge of sustainability and ethical sourcing standards
13. ERP and procurement systems proficiency
14. Degree in Supply Chain, Procurement, Business, or related field (or equivalent experience)
15. CIPS qualification desirable
What’s On Offer
16. Competitive salary - circa £40,000
17. Benefits package including employee assistance programme and death in service
18. Opportunities for training and career progression
Additional Information
19. Working hours: Monday – Friday (40 hours per week)