Supply Chain Coordinator / Buyer (Manufacturing)
Location: Trafford Park, Manchester
Salary: £40,000 – £45,000 (DOE)
Hours: 44 hours per week, Monday to Friday
The Role
An opportunity has arisen for an experienced Supply Chain Coordinator / Buyer to join a well-established manufacturing business. This role is critical in ensuring materials are available to support production, managing supplier performance, and maintaining smooth supply chain operations within a fast-paced environment.
You will take ownership of the full purchasing cycle, working closely with production, engineering, and suppliers to ensure materials are delivered on time and to specification.
Key Responsibilities
Purchasing and Material Planning
Creating and managing purchase orders for raw materials, components, and subcontracted parts
Confirming pricing, lead times, and delivery schedules with suppliers
Interpreting production schedules to plan material requirements
Maintaining accurate MRP/ERP data including lead times, safety stock, and supplier details
Managing shortages and expediting critical parts to avoid production delaysSupplier Management
Acting as the main point of contact for suppliers
Monitoring supplier performance (OTIF, quality, responsiveness)
Resolving delivery, quality, and capacity issues
Conducting supplier reviews and driving improvements
Identifying supply risks and implementing mitigation plansProduction and Manufacturing Support
Attending production meetings to provide updates on material availability
Working closely with production planners and engineers on changes and updates
Supporting new product introductions by ensuring materials are sourced and delivered on timeLogistics and Delivery Coordination
Tracking inbound shipments and liaising with freight forwarders
Ensuring all documentation is accurate and compliant
Resolving discrepancies between delivery notes and purchase orders
Coordinating with goods-in and quality teamsCost Control and Compliance
Supporting cost reduction initiatives through negotiation and sourcing
Maintaining up-to-date pricing and supplier agreements
Ensuring compliance with internal procedures and external standardsSkills and Experience Required
Previous experience in a Buyer, Purchasing, or Supply Chain role within manufacturing
Strong supplier management and order expediting experience
Good understanding of production planning and manufacturing processes
Experience using MRP/ERP systems (e.g. SAP, IFS, Epicor, Dynamics)
Strong Excel skills (including VLOOKUP and pivot tables)
Highly organised with strong attention to detail
Confident communicator with the ability to challenge and influence suppliersDesirable
CIPS qualification (or working towards)
Experience within automotive, engineering, aerospace, or similar sectors
Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles
Ability to read or understand technical drawingsSummary
This role would suit a proactive and organised individual who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and can effectively manage supplier relationships while ensuring production runs smoothly.
Forward Assist Recruitment is operating as an employment agency. Forward Assist Recruitment is an Equal Opportunities employer; we welcome applicants from all backgrounds