Purchasing Assistant

Reports To - Purchasing Manager

Are you a passionate person who is looking for growth, progression and development with a company who will invest in your professional journey? Are you looking to start a career within procurement? Then this role could be the role for you!

My client is looking for an enthusiastic purchasing assistant to join their busy and fast paced procurement function, ensuring the timely and cost-effective purchase of goods and services. The role involves processing purchase orders, liaising with suppliers, maintaining accurate records, and supporting inventory and supply chain activities to ensure business requirements are met efficiently.

Key Responsibilities

• Raise and process purchase orders in accordance with company procedures ensuring the company stock system is up to date at all times
• Communicate with suppliers regarding pricing, product availability, delivery schedules, and order status.
• Obtain and compare quotations from suppliers to support purchasing decisions.
• Monitor outstanding orders and follow up on late deliveries.
• Maintain accurate procurement records, supplier information, and purchasing documentation.
• Support the reconciliation of purchase orders, delivery notes, and invoices.
• Assist with inventory monitoring and stock replenishment activities.
• Resolve routine supplier queries and escalate issues where necessary.
• Support supplier performance monitoring and reporting activities.
• Ensure compliance with procurement policies, procedures, and budget controls.
• Produce purchasing reports and management information as required.
• Support the product team in assigning SKUs and setting maintaining product spec sheets.
• Work closely with other teams to ensure seamless and timely delivery of product.
• Work collaboratively with internal departments to understand purchasing requirements and ensure timely fulfilment.

Key Skills and Experience

Essential

• Strong organisational and time management skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
• Good written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel.
• Ability to prioritise workload and meet deadlines.
• Strong numerical and analytical skills.
• A ‘can-do’ flexible attitude.
• A willingness to learn and a desire to develop professionally.
• Team player.

Desirable

• Previous experience using ERP, MRP, or procurement systems.
• Understanding of purchasing and supply chain processes.
• Experience working with suppliers and managing purchase orders.

Qualifications

• GCSEs (or equivalent) including Maths and English at Grade B/5 or above. 3 A-levels or equivalent college qualification.
• Business Administration, Procurement, Supply Chain, or related qualifications are advantageous

Salary

This is an entry level junior role so circa £27k, DOE so potentially negotiable

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• 28 days holiday inclusive of bank holidays
• Training and development opportunities
• Employee assistance programme
• Career progression opportunities
• 40 hours per week
• Fully onsite – must drive
• Pension

Typical KPIs

• Purchase order accuracy
• On-time order processing
• Supplier response times
• Inventory availability levels
• Invoice and delivery note reconciliation accuracy