Purchasing and Stores Team Leader

Pharmaron; Cardiff; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A global contract research organization located in Cardiff is seeking a proactive Purchasing and Stores Team Leader. In this essential role, you will lead purchasing operations, manage supplier performance, and ensure compliant storage of materials. Candidates should have a CIPS qualification, degree-level education, and experience in a leadership role related to purchasing. Strong administrative skills are crucial. Join a team focused on innovation and operational excellence within the biopharmaceutical industry.

Benefits

Collaborative and inclusive culture

Opportunities for innovation and contribution

Qualifications

• CIPS qualification required.
• Degree-level education in a scientific field preferred.
• Experience in a purchasing/stores leadership role.

Responsibilities

• Lead purchasing activities and manage supplier performance.
• Oversee site stores operations and ensure compliance with safety standards.
• Coordinate administrative services including document management.
• Support audits with accurate data and promote cost saving.

Skills

Strong administrative and organisational skills

Proficiency in ERP, purchasing, and stock control systems

Excellent procurement and negotiation abilities

Effective written and verbal communication

Ability to multitask, prioritise, and manage time efficiently

High attention to detail and a methodical approach

Strong IT skills, particularly with Microsoft Office

Education

CIPS qualification (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply)

Degree-level education, preferably in a scientific discipline

Archivist experience

Job description

Package Description

Position : Purchasing and Stores Team Leader

Location : Cardiff

Pharmaron is a global CRO helping pharma and biotech companies bring new therapies to life. With over 21,000 employees worldwide across 23 locations in the US, UK and China, we support drug discovery through to manufacturing with fully integrated, high-quality services.

About the Role

Pharmaron is currently looking to recruit a proactive and detail-driven Purchasing and Stores Team Leader to join our Cardiff site. In this key role, you’ll lead the delivery of purchasing, stores, and administrative services to ensure the smooth and compliant operation of our facility. You’ll be responsible for maintaining optimal stock levels, managing supplier performance, and supporting site-wide operations through robust administrative processes.

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, regulated environment and is passionate about operational excellence, supply chain efficiency, and team leadership.

Key responsibilities

• Lead purchasing activities including raising POs, onboarding suppliers, negotiating contracts, and ensuring compliance with ISO standards.
• Manage site stores operations to maintain optimal stock levels and ensure timely supply of materials to support site activities.
• Oversee the safe storage and supply of chemical stock, maintaining Kanban systems and ensuring compliance with safety standards.
• Coordinate administrative services including document scanning, record storage, and electronic archiving.
• Ensure all processes are robust, compliant, and aligned with SOPs and applicable standards.
• Support internal and external audits by providing accurate and timely data.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities and evaluate suppliers with strong ESG credentials to support sustainability goals.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement and operational efficiency across the site.

Candidate Profile

Education

• CIPS qualification (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply) - Required
• Degree-level education, preferably in a scientific discipline
• Archivist experience

Experience

• Proven track record in a similar purchasing / stores leadership role

Skills & Knowledge

• Strong administrative and organisational skills
• Proficiency in ERP, purchasing, and stock control systems
• Excellent procurement and negotiation abilities
• Effective written and verbal communication
• Ability to multitask, prioritise, and manage time efficiently
• High attention to detail and a methodical approach
• Strong IT skills, particularly with Microsoft Office

Why Pharmaron?

Collaborative Culture : Thrive in our inclusive and collaborative environment, where teamwork and innovation go hand in hand. Here, your voice matters, and your contributions make a real impact. "Employees Number One" and "Clients Centered" are the core cultural values at Pharmaron. Our culture, which sets Pharmaron apart from other organizations, has evolved from our deep commitment to our employees, partners and collaborators.

How to Apply

Ready to seize this incredible opportunity? Join us at Pharmaron and be part of a dynamic team driving innovation and excellence in biopharmaceutical research and development. Apply online today!

Pharmaron is a premier service provider for the life sciences industry. Founded in 2004, Pharmaron has invested in its people and facilities and established a broad spectrum of research, development, and manufacturing service capabilities throughout the entire drug discovery, preclinical, and clinical development process across multiple therapeutic modalities, including small molecules, biologics, and CGT products. With over 21,000 employees and operations in the U.S., the U.K. and China. Pharmaron has an excellent track record in delivering R&D solutions to its partners in North America, Europe, Japan, and China.