Description Location: Colchester, UK Salary: £35,000 – £40,000 per annum Benefits: Profit-based bonus scheme, excellent working environment, and progression opportunities within a growing SME business Employment Type: Full-Time | Permanent Are you ready to take the next step in your purchasing career and grow into a leadership role? We are working with an established and rapidly growing SME manufacturing business that designs and produces innovative products for a range of industries. They are now looking for a driven individual with a background in manufacturing or industrial environments to join their team as a Junior Buyer. This role offers clear progression to managing the entire buying function for the business. Why Join This Business? This is a fantastic opportunity to join a successful and forward-thinking company that values quality, innovation, and reliability. You’ll be part of a collaborative and ambitious team where your ideas are valued, and your professional growth matters. Company Values: Be Respectful | Be Accurate | Be Positive | Be Innovative | Be Dependable The Role As a Junior Buyer, you will play a key role in ensuring that the right materials are in the right place at the right time. You’ll manage day-to-day purchasing activities and develop into a strategic leader who shapes the future of the procurement function. Key Responsibilities: * Manage purchasing activities through the ERP system, ensuring accurate data and timely stock replenishment. * Place and track purchase orders to align with production requirements. * Build and maintain strong supplier relationships to drive improvements in cost, quality, and delivery. * Collaborate closely with Production, Engineering, and Operations to ensure smooth material flow. * Support strategic projects, including the transition to a Just-In-Time supply model. Requirements * Experience in purchasing, procurement, or supply chain within a manufacturing or industrial environment is essential. * Strong IT and ERP knowledge (Excel intermediate level or above). * Excellent communication and negotiation skills. * Highly organised, detail-focused, and proactive under pressure. * Ambitious, with a desire to grow into a leadership role. Benefits * Salary: £35,000 – £40,000 per annum. * Profit-based bonus scheme. * Excellent working environment in a growing SME business. * Clear career path with progression to Purchasing Manager. * Involvement in both day-to-day operations and strategic supply chain projects. If you’re looking for a role with genuine progression and the opportunity to make a real impact within a growing organisation, we’d love to hear from you