Purchasing Manager

Are you an experienced Purchasing Manager with a strong commercial mindset and a passion for supply chain excellence? My client in Okehampton is looking for a proactive and analytical Purchasing Manager to lead their purchasing function, ensuring the right products are available at the right time, quality, and cost. Working closely with senior management, production, and operations teams, you'll play a key role in driving stock availability, supplier performance, cost control, and margin improvement across the business. Key Responsibilities Purchasing & Stock Management Manage purchasing activities across raw materials, ingredients, packaging, and operational supplies. Maintain optimum stock levels to support production and customer demand. Monitor sales trends and stock levels to make informed purchasing decisions. Minimise waste, overstocking, and stock shortages. Supplier Management Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers. Negotiate competitive pricing, rebates, and commercial terms. Monitor supplier performance, service levels, and product availability. Resolve supplier issues effectively and promptly. Forecasting & Commercial Performance Analyse sales forecasts and demand trends to support purchasing plans. Manage purchasing spend in line with budgets and business objectives. Drive cost savings and margin improvements through effective procurement strategies. Balance stock availability with cash flow and profitability targets. Leadership & Collaboration Work closely with Production, Operations, Product, and Supply Chain teams. Contribute to business planning and continuous improvement initiatives. Support company goals as a member of the Management Team. What We're Looking For Experience Proven experience in a Purchasing, Procurement, or Buying management role. Experience working within food manufacturing, FMCG, production, or a fast-paced operational environment is desirable . Strong supplier negotiation and relationship management experience. Experience managing stock control, forecasting, and purchasing budgets. Skills Excellent commercial and numerical skills. Strong analytical and problem-solving ability. Effective negotiator with the ability to influence stakeholders. Highly organised with excellent attention to detail. Strong communication and relationship-building skills. Ability to react quickly to changing business demands. Benefits: Competitive salary (negotiable DOE) 28 days holiday inclusive of bank holidays 40 hours per week Fully onsite – must drive Pension If you're a commercially focused purchasing professional looking for your next challenge, we'd love to hear from you.