Purchasing Assistant

Arc Recruitment; Dewsbury; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A successful manufacturing business is seeking an experienced Purchasing Assistant to join their dynamic team in Dewsbury. The candidate will be responsible for optimizing stock and managing supplier relationships, while being a decision-maker under pressure. The ideal individual will have a minimum of 2 years’ experience in purchasing, strong analytical skills, and excellent communication abilities. This position offers a competitive salary and benefits package in a supportive environment.

Benefits

Supportive team environment

Scope for development

Competitive salary and benefits package

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years' experience in a purchasing or buying role, preferably in manufacturing.
• Interest in professional qualifications such as CIPS.
• Ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities.

Responsibilities

• Analyse inventory levels and place purchase orders.
• Communicate order delays or changes to relevant teams.
• Monitor supplier performance and report issues.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving skills

Communication skills

Numerical skills

Attention to detail

Education

Degree level education or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

We are recruiting on behalf of our client, a successful and fast-paced manufacturing business, for an experienced and motivated Purchasing Assistant to join their dynamic team.

This is an excellent opportunity for an organised and proactive individual looking to further their career in procurement within a supportive and growing company.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyse inventory levels, demand forecasts and consumption patterns to place purchase orders that optimise stock and reduce carrying costs.
• Raise daily, weekly and ad-hoc purchase orders and liaise directly with suppliers.
• Check and confirm order acknowledgements, resolve discrepancies, and update the system (NAV) with accurate delivery information.
• Communicate any order delays or changes promptly to the sales and production teams to minimise disruption.
• Liaise with the Goods In department to prepare for deliveries.
• Review weekly Goods In reports and chase suppliers for outstanding orders.
• Maintain accurate supplier and delivery records.
• Make independent purchasing decisions to ensure stock availability while controlling costs.
• Monitor supplier performance, including KPIs and OTIF metrics, and report any issues to ensure continuity of supply.
• Collaborate with internal departments to manage new requirements and follow all procurement procedures.

Key Skills & Experience

• Minimum 2 years' experience in a purchasing or buying role (manufacturing background preferred).
• Educated to degree level or equivalent, with an interest in professional qualifications such as CIPS.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities.
• Confident decision-maker under pressure.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Strong numerical and Excel skills.
• IT literate with good knowledge of Microsoft Office packages.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.

Benefits

• Opportunity to join a respected and growing organisation.
• Supportive team environment with scope for development.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.