Purchasing Manager

Manufacturing Sector | Competitive Salary + Benefits

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Purchasing Manager to join a well-established manufacturing business. This is a key leadership role responsible for ensuring the cost-effective, high-quality and uninterrupted supply of materials and services required to support production operations.

Working within a fast-paced environment, you will lead procurement activities, develop supplier partnerships, drive cost-saving initiatives and ensure the business maintains the highest standards of quality, delivery and compliance.

The Role

As Purchasing Manager, you will be responsible for sourcing a wide range of direct and indirect materials, including engineering components, castings, metals and specialist manufacturing supplies. You will play a pivotal role in managing supplier performance, reducing costs and supporting operational efficiency across the business.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic sourcing initiatives to achieve cost reductions and continuous improvement.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with UK and international suppliers.
• Negotiate commercial agreements, pricing, lead times and supply contracts.
• Collaborate closely with Production, Engineering and Quality teams to support existing products and new product introductions.
• Monitor market trends and identify opportunities to improve supplier performance and reduce supply chain risks.
• Manage inventory levels through effective use of MRP systems.
• Ensure procurement activities comply with company procedures, customs regulations and ethical sourcing standards.
• Support business growth through proactive supplier development and sourcing strategies.
• Undertake supplier visits and overseas travel when required.

About You

To be successful in this role, you will have:

• Proven experience as a Purchasing Manager within a manufacturing environment.
• A strong understanding of engineering or technical manufacturing processes.
• Excellent negotiation, supplier management and commercial skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Experience using MRP and stock control systems.
• The ability to build effective relationships across multiple departments and suppliers.
• A proactive approach to cost reduction, process improvement and supply chain optimisation.

Desirable

• CIPS qualification or currently working towards MCIPS.
• Experience sourcing engineering materials and components within a manufacturing or engineering setting.

What's on Offer?

• The opportunity to join a successful and growing manufacturing organisation.
• A varied and strategic role with genuine influence across the business.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Long-term career development opportunities within a stable and supportive environment.

If you are an experienced purchasing professional looking for your next challenge in manufacturing, we would love to hear from you.