Purchasing Specialist Permanent £33,000.00 - £37,000.00 per annum Days Southport Are you a commercially minded Purchasing/Buying Specialist who thrives in a manufacturing environment where supplier performance, material flow and cost control really matter? We’re looking for a proactive, hands-on Purchasing Specialist to work closely with our clients Manufacturing Manager and play a critical role in ensuring materials, parts and sub-assemblies are sourced, controlled and delivered to support efficient, on-time production. This is a key position within our clients operation, offering real ownership of supplier relationships, material planning and continuous improvement activity. The Role As Purchasing Specialist, you’ll take responsibility for the end-to-end purchasing and materials management process, ensuring supply continuity, cost control and operational excellence across the factory. You will: * Identify, assess and onboard new suppliers in line with defined procedures * Manage preferred suppliers, driving performance, quality and cost improvement * Lead supplier engagement in continuous improvement and cost reduction initiatives * Coordinate supplier first article and first production sample approvals * Raise and manage quotations, purchase orders and call-offs for materials, parts and sub-assemblies * Use the MRP system to forecast demand, control inventory and maintain optimal stock levels * Oversee goods receipt, identification, storage and material presentation to production lines * Investigate and resolve purchase ledger and invoice queries promptly * Control stock accuracy across raw materials, WIP and finished goods, including month-end counts and reconciliations * Manage non-conforming materials, supplier returns and system updates * Control supplier costs, identify savings and communicate lead-time or cost risks clearly What We’re Looking For * Strong experience in purchasing, materials management or supply chain within a manufacturing environment * Solid understanding of modern purchasing, supplier development and materials planning principles * Commercially aware with the confidence to negotiate and challenge suppliers * Comfortable working with MRP/ERP systems and inventory control processes * A clear communicator who can work effectively across production, quality, finance and logistics * A practical problem-solver with a continuous improvement mindset * Organised, resilient and able to manage multiple priorities under pressure Leadership & Working Style * Fair, consistent and professional when dealing with conflict or performance issues * Listens to operational teams and values shop-floor insight * Builds trust and positive working relationships * Plans and prioritises work effectively to meet production and business targets * Supports colleagues through clear communication and on-the-job guidance Why Join Them? * A role with genuine influence on cost, delivery and production performance * Close collaboration with manufacturing leadership * Opportunity to drive supplier improvement and lean initiatives * Stable, structured manufacturing environment with clear processes * Chance to contribute directly to business improvement projects and measurable KPIs To be considered for this position, please send us your CV ASAP by applying to this advert