Purchasing Assistant

Position

Purchasing Assistant – Bristol

Annual salary: £32,000 to £35,000. Permanent, full‑time (37.5 hours per week). 30 days holiday, pension, parking and more. Start: ASAP.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement cost‑optimisation and supply chain efficiency strategies.
• Identify, evaluate and select suppliers based on quality, reliability, cost‑effectiveness and ethical and sustainability standards.
• Negotiate terms to secure favourable pricing, payment terms and mutually beneficial agreements.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to understand requirements and align procurement activities with organisational goals.
• Manage supplier relationships, including performance evaluation and ensuring on‑time deliveries.
• Monitor inventory levels, analyse demand patterns and implement inventory management strategies to avoid shortages or excesses.
• Carry out regular stock counts and support the Quality Co‑ordinator with supplier non‑conformance issues.
• Compile and maintain supplier records, databases, price lists, specifications, artwork and contracts.
• Coordinate with finance to resolve purchase‑ledger queries.
• Raise purchase orders and send to suppliers.
• Track orders, update POs and ensure timely delivery.
• Prepare purchase reports, including cost analysis.
• Understand global sourcing reporting requirements and commodity codes (duties/taxes).

Qualifications

• Experience as a buyer, purchasing assistant, buying assistant or purchaser in manufacturing or supplier‑based industry.
• Experience with ERP or MRP systems.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
• Strong analytical, communication and negotiation skills.
• Desire to progress towards a purchasing supervisor role.

Benefits

• Opportunities for progression and development.
• Standard hours 08:30–17:00, with some flexibility.
• Salary £32,000 – £35,000 per annum.
• Immediate start available.
• Company pension.
• 22 days holiday plus bank holidays (rising to 25 with service).
• Free on‑site parking.
• Sick pay.
• Discretionary bonus.

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