Purchasing Assistant

Cogent Staffing; England; On-site; GBP 27,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency is seeking a detail-oriented Purchasing Assistant to support operations. Responsibilities include managing purchase orders, supplier negotiation, and ensuring optimal inventory. The ideal applicant should have strong organizational skills, proficiency in SAGE and Excel, and experience in supply chain management. Full-time role with a salary of £27,000.

Qualifications

• Strong organizational and multitasking skills.
• Proficiency in SAGE and Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel.
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills.
• Experience in purchasing or supply chain management is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and control buying and goods for optimal inventory levels.
• Manage Purchase Order systems to ensure compliance.
• Investigate and implement new systems for improved processes.
• Negotiate contracts and pricing with suppliers.
• Reconcile accounts and match invoices against orders.
• Book travel arrangements and organize transportation logistics.

Skills

Organizational skills

Multitasking

Negotiation skills

Communication skills

Tools

SAGE

Microsoft Office Suite

Excel

Job description

Overview

Cogent Staffing are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Purchasing Assistant to join our client's team. In this role, you will provide essential administrative support to the Office Manager and collaborate with the Production Coordinator/Factory Supervisor to ensure the smooth and efficient operation of business. Your responsibilities will include processing purchase orders, negotiating with suppliers, tracking orders, and maintaining inventory, among other tasks.

Shift/salary

• Full time role
• 07:30-16:30 Monday to Friday
• 27,000 salary
• Immediate start required

Key Responsibilities

• Purchasing Control: Monitor and control buying and goods in to ensure optimal inventory levels.
• PO Management: Manage Purchase Order (PO) systems to ensure compliance with authorisations and budgetary limits.
• System Improvement: Investigate and implement new systems for continuous improvement in purchasing processes.
• SAGE Utilization: Effectively use SAGE software for inventory management and purchasing activities.
• Supplier Negotiation: Negotiate contracts and pricing with suppliers to secure the best deals.
• Order Placement: Place orders efficiently, minimizing paperwork and coordinating with factory planning.
• Invoice Matching: Match invoices against orders, checking prices and delivery quantities for accuracy.
• Travel Arrangements: Book hotels, flights, and transport for installations, takeouts, and exhibitions.
• Account Reconciliation: Reconcile Mastercard and Soldo accounts for accuracy in financial reporting.
• Transportation Organization: Organize transportation logistics for various operational needs.
• Documentation: Produce risk assessments and method statements as required.
• Data Management: Input data into spreadsheets and maintain organized filing systems.
• General Office Duties: Assist with general office tasks and any ad hoc jobs that may arise.

Qualifications

• Strong organizational and multitasking skills.
• Proficiency in SAGE and Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel.
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills.
• Experience in purchasing or supply chain management is preferred.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

At Cogent Staffing, we are committed to ethical recruitment practices and fostering an inclusive workplace. We actively encourage applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of race, gender, disability, religion or belief, sexual orientation, age, or any other characteristic protected by law. We believe that diversity enriches our teams and enhances our ability to serve our clients effectively.

We ensure that our recruitment processes are fair, transparent, and free from bias, promoting equal opportunities for all applicants.