Location
Horsham (Oakhurst Business Park, Southwater)
Package
Basic salary up to £30,000 (dependent on experience) plus bonus & flexible benefits package including up to 27 days holiday (plus bank holidays & additional annual leave purchasing scheme)
Hours
37.5 hours per week, Monday-Friday
Sector
Packaging Distribution
Overview
Optimise stock, drive efficiency, and support business performance at Macfarlane Packaging, a company committed to protecting what matters – our people, customers and the planet. With over 75 years of industry expertise, we combine the strength of a market leader with the pace and energy of a commercial, sales‑led business. If you enjoy working with data, driving efficiencies, and playing a key role in operational performance, this is an opportunity to make a real impact.
Responsibilities (Assistant Buyer)
* Manage stock levels across allocated sites, ensuring availability aligns with customer demand and service levels.
* Forecast inventory requirements using data and customer insight to optimise stock holding.
* Monitor and manage aged, excess, and slow‑moving stock to improve margin and reduce waste.
* Create and raise purchase orders for standard and non‑standard items.
* Expedite orders and resolve supply or cost issues to maintain continuity and control spend.
* Maintain accurate inventory records, ensuring strong data integrity across systems.
* Manage Goods In schedules and oversee accurate Goods Received Notes (GRNs).
* Negotiate pricing, terms, and service levels with suppliers to ensure best value and performance.
* Support tender processes to secure favourable commercial terms.
* Work closely with sales, procurement and logistics teams to align stock planning with customer needs.
* Build strong relationships across departments and with suppliers to support effective supply‑chain performance.
What We’re Looking For
* Experience working in an inventory control, stock management or supply chain role.
* Strong analytical and numerical skills with confidence working with data and Excel.
* Excellent attention to detail and a structured, organised approach.
* Ability to prioritise and manage workload in a fast‑paced environment.
* Strong communication skills and ability to work cross‑functionally.
* Proactive mindset with the ability to identify issues and implement solutions.
* Comfortable managing a large SKU range across multiple product categories.
Desirable
* Previous experience in a distribution or logistics environment.
* Understanding of inventory management principles.
Benefits
* 25 days holiday (rising to 27 with service) plus bank holidays and an additional holiday purchasing scheme.
* Contributory pension options.
* Employee assistance programme to support wellbeing.
* Ongoing training and career development opportunities.
* Employee discounts across major retail and leisure outlets.
* Long service awards and recognition.
EEO Statement
We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, nationality, ethnicity, gender expression, religion or sexual orientation. Should you require any specific support or adjustments during the recruitment process, please email our recruitment team.
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