Role: 

To provide a proactive and qualitative Purchasing function to the organisation covering an approximate £12 million spend per annum.

To work with the company’s established management in order to successfully achieve cost savings through strong negotiation with planning, warehouse, suppliers and maintain / develop a robust stock control system. 

To ensure that the organisation is strategically equipped to achieve and exceed organisational objectives via means of appropriate purchasing strategy, ordering processes, supplier selection, supplier management and implementation of projects etc.

Main Responsibilities: 

Work closely with the Operations Director and the Senior Management Team in the development and implementation of the Purchasing strategy.

Serve as the Purchasing point of contact to the Senior Management Team, Senior Managers and Line Managers to actively deliver for the businesses monthly / annual objectives.

Maintain a strong business acumen and successfully influence cost savings within the business.

To support and advise the business on process and best practice.

To manage the ordering process including chemicals/ingredients/components/printed matter/ packaging, consumables and other indirect items – either from the UK or abroad.

Identify appropriate order levels, place orders, and monitor accuracy of reordered inventory shipments received.

Lead, direct, motivate and manage appropriate purchasing team activities to satisfy the business needs.

Maintain accurate purchasing and stock records for cost and audit compliance.

Sourcing of manufacturers for own made products for outsourcing if required.

Successfully manage, maintain and foster strong business relationships and partnerships with sub-contract manufacturing partners.

Develop strong supplier relationships both in the UK and abroad.

Negotiate contracts for services.

Approve and liaise with the accounts department ensuring invoices are processed and paid in a timely manner.

Work closely with the Quality Assurance team ensuring compliance and adherence with all appropriate regulations.

Provide appropriate input to the annual budgeting process.

Play an active part in the new product development process.

Responsible for creating & amending Bills Of Materials – Components and finished goods part numbers.

Develop alternative / new supplier pipelines to support NPD and risk mitigation from traditional / existing suppliers.

Key Qualities: 

CIPS Qualified. (Chartered Institute Procurement and Supply). 

Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.

Experience within a regulated environment.

Excellent organisational skills.

Strong negotiation skills.

IT Literate.

Confidential manner.

Professional manner when dealing with suppliers and colleagues alike.

Good attention to detail.

Ability to manage various personal and team priorities at the same time.

Ability to manage & deliver own workload.

Ability to manage difficult and complex situations.

Team player & ‘Can Do Attitude’.

Have a “Hands On” approach.

Experience managing international suppliers an advantage.