Hasting, East Sussex
Up to £50,000
Our client is a specialist manufacturer (part of an international group) looking for a Purchasing Manager to run the procurement function and lead a small team of two.
This is a genuinely interesting role for the right person. Manufacturing supply chains are a balancing act; overstock and you tie up cash; understock and long supplier lead times can stall production. They need someone who can manage that tension with confidence.
They welcome first-time managers, if you have strong purchasing/supply chain experience but haven't formally line-managed before, this role offers development opportunities.
Key Responsibilities – Purchasing Manager
* Ensure timely component supply against production demand and the MRP
* Build and negotiate supplier relationships & contracts; source new vendors as needed
* Set and monitor stock levels to balance availability against excess inventory
* Track supplier performance, quality and delivery reliability against costs
* Lead inventory audits and support continuous improvement (Lean, 5S)
* Manage and develop a small team – logistics & buyer
* Occasional travel required for supplier meetings.
Essential Requirements – Purchasing Manager
* 5+ years' purchasing/supply chain experience, ideally in manufacturing or a similar production environment
* Strong understanding of stock/inventory management, particularly balancing buffer stock against long supplier lead times
* Good grasp of procurement processes, sourcing strategy and supply chain risk
* Familiarity with MRP/ERP systems
* Proficient in Microsoft Office and purchasing software
* Strong financial and commercial acumen
Desirable
* Prior line management experience (not essential, support available for first-time managers)
* CPSM or CIPS qualification
Salary description
£45000.00 - £50000.00 per year