Strategic Purchasing & Inventory Manager

Watton Recruitment Ltd; Shefford; On-site; GBP 52,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Watton Recruitment Ltd is seeking an experienced Purchasing & Inventory Manager to own stock, buying terms and landed costs. You will work with suppliers to maximise terms, manage PO processes for multiple suppliers, and use data to drive range decisions and reduce working capital.

The role requires strong analytical skills, ERP/demand planning experience and proven negotiation ability to secure favorable terms. Based in the UK, this position may involve on-site collaboration with operations.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in purchasing, buying, procurement or inventory management in a distribution or wholesale environment.
• Strong negotiation skills with suppliers and a track record of rebates or favourable terms.
• Advanced Excel skills and confidence with ERP data.
• Experience presenting findings to management.

Responsibilities

• Own stock and purchasing control across key suppliers, balancing availability with cost.
• Develop and use a landed cost calculator tracking price, freight, duty, FX, and handling.
• Drive supplier relationships, with regular reviews and performance scorecards.
• Produce SLOB reports and work with Sales on clearance and discounting strategies.
• Identify high-margin/high-velocity lines and guide focus for sales.

Skills

Purchasing

Supplier negotiation

Excel

ERP data analysis

Inventory management

Tools

ERP software

Job description

Watton Recruitment Ltd is seeking an experienced Purchasing & Inventory Manager to own stock, buying terms and landed costs. You will work with suppliers to maximise terms, manage PO processes for multiple suppliers, and use data to drive range decisions and reduce working capital.

The role requires strong analytical skills, ERP/demand planning experience and proven negotiation ability to secure favorable terms. Based in the UK, this position may involve on-site collaboration with operations.