Inventory & Demand Forecasting Lead

Macfarlane Packaging; Washington; On-site; GBP 29,000 - 35,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Contributory pension scheme

Flexible benefits package including 
3

27 days holiday (plus bank holidays)

Annual leave purchasing scheme

Job summary

Macfarlane Packaging is seeking a Buyer to own stock management across our site, balancing working capital, space utilization and margin. You’ll forecast demand, manage stock levels and identify opportunities to improve performance with procurement, sales and logistics teams.

This role emphasizes accuracy, organisation, and commercial awareness as you handle a wide range of SKUs and negotiate with suppliers to ensure best value and performance.

Qualifications

• Strong numerical and data analysis abilities using data to forecast demand and manage stock.
• Excellent attention to detail and structured, organised approach.
• Ability to prioritise and manage workload in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication skills across procurement, sales and logistics.
• Experience with inventory or stock management principles is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Manage stock levels across sites to meet demand and service levels.
• Forecast inventory requirements using data and customer insight.
• Monitor aged, excess and slow-moving stock to improve margin.
• Raise and manage purchase orders for standard and non-standard items.
• Expedite orders and resolve supply or cost issues to maintain continuity.
• Maintain accurate inventory records and GRNs across systems.
• Negotiate pricing, terms and service levels with suppliers.
• Support tender processes to secure favourable terms.
• Collaborate with sales, procurement and logistics to align stock planning.
• Build strong inter-departmental and supplier relationships.

Skills

Analytical skills

Excel

Attention to detail

Cross-functional collaboration

Proactive problem solving

SKU management

Tools

ERP systems

Job description

Macfarlane Packaging is seeking a Buyer to own stock management across our site, balancing working capital, space utilization and margin. You’ll forecast demand, manage stock levels and identify opportunities to improve performance with procurement, sales and logistics teams.

This role emphasizes accuracy, organisation, and commercial awareness as you handle a wide range of SKUs and negotiate with suppliers to ensure best value and performance.