Buyer / Stock Controller

Cumbria Chamber MD; Appleby; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Staff Pension scheme

20 days pro‑rata annual leave + bank/h

Industry events attendance

Job summary

AS3 Performance is seeking a dedicated stock buyer to lead the procurement of stock from suppliers, align purchasing with operational needs, and drive efficient stock management. The role requires coordinating with colleagues and suppliers to ensure timely deliveries and optimal stock levels.

In this hands-on position, you will analyse sales data to forecast demand, negotiate terms, and maintain accurate procurement records while contributing to growth in a small, collaborative team.

Qualifications

• Experience in a buying role or transferable skills
• Ability to analyse data and make informed decisions
• Enthusiastic, positive mindset to drive growth
• Excellent written and verbal communication with suppliers
• Team player with strong organisational skills
• Proficient with Microsoft Office and stock systems

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and oversee stock ordering and purchasing plans
• Maintain supplier relationships and negotiate terms
• Forecast future purchasing needs based on demand
• Collaborate with finance, marketing, wholesale, and product teams
• Monitor sales, margins and inventory for profitability

Skills

Buying experience

Data analysis

Supplier negotiation

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Organisational skills

MS Office proficiency

Stock management

Attention to detail

Growth mindset

Tools

Stock management software

Job description

• minimum of 30 hours / week, up to 40 hours upon discussion and personal circumstances

Company

AS3 Performance is an e-commerce business based in Appleby, Cumbria. We have been selling our own branded motorcycle parts within the UK and internationally for over 12 years and, due to growth, we are looking for a buyer/stock controller to join our team.

Job Overview

We are looking for someone to join our small but dynamic team to take a lead role as our stock buyer. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in managing the buying process of stock from suppliers, ensuring that all purchasing activities align with the operational needs of the company. They will work closely with colleagues and suppliers alike, drawing on previous experience to thrive in the role.

Responsibilities

• Coordinating and overseeing the stock ordering process, preparing frequent stock order and creating purchase plans.
• Developing and maintaining relationships with our current UK and overseas suppliers to ensure timely delivery of goods and services.
• Negotiating prices and MOQs with suppliers to secure the best possible terms for the company.
• Closely monitoring inventory levels and forecasting future purchasing needs based on demand.
• Collaborating with colleagues to understand the purchasing requirements, resources and opportunities, including the finance, marketing, wholesale and product development teams.
• Analysing sales performance, margins and stock levels to optimise profitability whilst maintaining the correct amount of inventory.
• Maintaining accurate records of purchases, pricing and other important data within procurement systems.
• Potentially being involved in other similar projects / ad‑hoc work that aligns with and leads to improving the role.

Skill Requirements

What skillsets/experience are we looking for?

• Some previous experience in a buying role / ability or be able to demonstrate a transferable skillset from a similar role.
• The ability to make informed decisions from data analysis, learn and develop experience in the industry.
• An enthusiastic and positive mindset to help drive the business forward to the next steps.
• Great communication skills, both written and verbal, for liaising with colleagues and suppliers.
• The ability to work as part of the team.
• Strong organisational skills with attention to detail in managing multiple tasks.
• Be proficient and confident in using software, computer systems and have experience in Microsoft programs, emails, stock management / similar.
• The ability to build relationships with suppliers and have confidence and skills in negotiating regarding pricing/quantities/productivity and delivery timescales, special deals.
• A passion for working together in a small team and contributing to growth both in the role and the AS3 brand.

Pay and Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience and skillset.
• Annual leave (20 days pro‑ra) plus statutory bank holidays.
• Monthly team performance based social rewards.
• The opportunity to attend industry related events.
• Option to join the Staff Pension scheme.