Job Title: Purchaser Salary: Up to £40,000 DOE Reporting To: Managing Director Role Overview The Purchaser is responsible for managing stock levels, purchasing activities, and supplier performance to support efficient business operations. The role focuses on maintaining a lean, just-in-time inventory system while ensuring materials and goods are always available when required. Key Responsibilities 1. Stock & Inventory Management a. Stock Management * Implement and maintain improved stock control processes to support a lean, just-in-time inventory model. * Use the stock control system to ensure purchase orders are raised proactively, avoiding stock shortages. * Collaborate with the Production Planner and Managing Director to develop annual usage forecasts, particularly for long lead-time items. b. Purchasing * Raise and manage purchase orders for: * Production stock items * Office stationery * One-off purchases * Take ownership of delivery schedules to ensure goods arrive on time, in full, and to the correct specification. * Maintain accurate purchase order data within the business system, ensuring alignment with goods received records. * Work closely with the Warehouse & Shipping Manager to ensure accurate booking-in of goods. * Provide a monthly report on outstanding purchase orders, including values and expected delivery dates. * Proactively identify opportunities to reduce material costs through supplier negotiation or alternative sourcing. c. Non-Conformity Management * Report and manage non-conforming goods with suppliers, ensuring credits or replacements are issued. * Monitor and track supplier performance using key metrics such as quality (defects), delivery performance, and cost. 2. Data Management * Maintain accurate and up-to-date supplier information within the system. * Work with the Technical team to ensure consistency and accuracy of part numbers and product descriptions. Skills & Experience * Previous experience in a purchasing or procurement role * Excellent administrative experience with strong attention to detail and accuracy * Strong organisational and data management skills * Ability to manage supplier relationships effectively * Experience with stock control or ERP systems * Good communication and negotiation skills