Role: Purchasing Assistant
Ref: VR/05358
Location: Dinnington / Rotherham
Salary: £28,000–£30,000 (DOE)
Inspire Resourcing Ltd are seeking a commercially minded Purchasing Assistant who is as comfortable working in spreadsheets. You will ideally be able to build strong relationships with suppliers. Also enjoy analysing data, spotting trends, and improving how stock, suppliers, and systems are managed, this role gives you the chance to influence how things work rather than simply follow established routines.
The Job Requirements:
* Demonstrable in purchasing, stock management, or supply chain
* Confidence using ERP systems and Excel, with an instinct for improving reports and processes
* Strong supplier relationship skills and the ability to communicate effectively
* A detail‑focused approach combined with an understanding of the bigger commercial picture
* Excellent organisation, commercial awareness, and the ability to keep operations running smoothly
* A proactive mindset - you see inefficiencies and immediately think of better ways to work
Key Responsibilities
As Purchasing Assistant, you will take ownership of a portfolio of suppliers ensuring stock levels are optimised and goods flow efficiently from order through to delivery.
You will be responsible for managing and improving:
* Supplier ordering and stock planning
* ERP reporting and data accuracy to maintain optimal stock levels
* Supplier relationships, performance monitoring, and issue resolution
* Delivery tracking, transport planning, and coordination with Goods In
* Cross‑functional collaboration with Sales, Warehouse, Finance, and Operations
* Identification of process improvements and opportunities for automation
You will also support new product sourcing and contribute to the development of an expanding product range. Occasional travel to suppliers or trade fairs (UK or international) may be required.
Skills & Competencies
* Technical proficiency: Strong ERP experience, advanced Excel skills, and confidence with data‑driven stock management
* Attention to detail: Ensures accuracy across orders, stock levels, and reporting
* Commercial awareness: Understands cost, margin, stock targets, and supplier performance
* Problem‑solving ability: Proactively addresses delivery issues, stock gaps, and system improvements
* Communication: Builds strong supplier relationships and collaborates effectively across teams
* Organisation & adaptability: Balances daily purchasing tasks with ongoing improvement projects
* Ownership mindset: Takes accountability for supplier performance and stock outcomes
Qualifications & Experience
Required:
* Previous experience in purchasing, stock control, or supply chain
* ERP system experience
* Strong Excel skills
* High numeracy and analytical capability
* Excellent written and verbal communication
* Ability to work independently while collaborating across departments
Desirable:
* Experience in import purchasing
* Background in FMCG or similar fast‑moving sectors is an advantage
Salary: 28-30K DOE
Hours of work: Monday to Friday