Buyer / Supply Chain Planner

Noble Recruiting Ltd.; Witham; On-site; GBP 34,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

A local recruiting agency in Witham is seeking a skilled Buyer / Supply Chain Planner for maternity cover. This full-time role offers £34,000 – £36,000 per annum, focusing on maintaining product availability and managing supplier performance within a manufacturing context. Candidates should have strong procurement and supply chain experience. The position starts in January 2026 and lasts up to 12 months.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a purchasing, buying, or supply chain planning role.
• Background within a manufacturing environment is highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of procurement, stock control, and supply chain processes.

Responsibilities

• Place accurate purchase orders using forecasts and sales data.
• Manage procurement of production, sales, and service materials.
• Monitor stock levels and maintain product availability.
• Build strong supplier relationships and manage supplier performance.
• Review invoices and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Produce accurate supplier forecasts and support production scheduling.
• Update availability dates and maintain supply chain data.
• Support transport admin tasks.

Skills

Procurement skills

Supply chain coordination

Relationship management

Stock control

Job description

Buyer / Supply Chain Planner – Maternity Cover
Witham, Essex
£34,000 – £36,000 per annum | Contract | Full-time
Start Date: January 2026 | Up to 12 months

A leading manufacturing business in Witham, Essex is seeking a skilled Buyer / Supply Chain Planner to support their purchasing and planning function during a maternity cover period. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with strong procurement and supply chain experience to join a reputable local employer.

About the Role

As the Buyer / Supply Chain Planner, you will play a vital role in maintaining product availability, managing supplier performance, and supporting production planning. This position is perfect for someone with experience in purchasing, materials planning, or supply chain coordination within a manufacturing setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Place accurate purchase orders using forecasts and sales data.
• Manage procurement of production, sales, and service materials.
• Monitor stock levels, investigate shortages, and maintain product availability.
• Build strong supplier relationships and manage supplier performance.
• Review invoices, support month-end processes, and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Produce accurate supplier forecasts and support daily production scheduling.
• Update availability dates, maintain supply chain data, and communicate plans internally.
• Support transport admin including MOTs, insurance, and delivery scheduling.

Experience Required

• Previous experience in a purchasing, buying, or supply chain planning role.
• Background within a manufacturing environment is highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of procurement, stock control, and supply chain processes.