Purchasing Manager

• Location: Sunderland
• Salary: £50,000 - £60,000
• Job Type: Full-time, occasional travel required

We are inviting an experienced Purchasing Manager to join our client, a well-established and progressive business in an exciting role which will be critical in positively shaping further growth within the organisation.

Responsibilities:

• Strategic Procurement Development: Craft and execute strategies focusing on cost reduction, quality enhancement, and supplier performance. Collaborate with the Sales Manager to predict needs and ensure a seamless supply chain.
• Team Leadership: Direct a team of 4 Category Buyers and 1 Purchasing Administrator. Establish objectives, performance standards, and KPIs, fostering a collaborative environment.
• Supplier Relationship Management: Sustain robust relationships with suppliers, negotiate terms, and conduct performance assessments. Explore new supplier partnerships to broaden the supplier base.
• Cost Oversight: Manage procurement budgets, spearhead cost-saving initiatives, and evaluate market conditions to ensure competitiveness.
• Inventory Management: Collaborate with the Inventory Management Committee to optimize stock levels and minimize waste.
• Contract and Risk Oversight: Administer contracts and mitigate supply chain risks.
• Performance Reporting and Analysis: Deliver insights on purchasing performance, cost savings, and market trends to support strategic decisions.
• Regulatory Compliance and Sustainability: Ensure procurement activities adhere to legal standards and promote sustainable sourcing.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Ideally Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, or a related field; CIPS qualification would be beneficial.
• At least 5 years of experience in procurement or supply chain management
• Demonstrated leadership and team management capabilities.
• Robust negotiation and analytical skills.
• Strong communication skills and proficiency in procurement software and MS Office.

Benefits:

• Compensation & Bonus: Competitive salary with an annual bonus based on personal and company performance.
• Pension Contribution: 5% employer contribution, 4% employee contribution minimum via salary sacrifice.
• Additional Perks: Life scheme, income protection, employee assistance program, tech-scheme, cycle work scheme, flu jab, and training opportunities.
• Holiday Entitlement: 20 days initially, increasing to 25 days after 10 years, plus all UK Bank Holidays, Annual Christmas shutdown and birthdays off.