Purchasing & Inventory Specialist

About the Role

Step into a pivotal purchasing role where your ability to negotiate, manage vendors, and control costs directly impacts operational performance and profitability. This is an opportunity to join a stable, growth-focused organisation that values structured procurement processes, strong supplier partnerships, and data-driven decision-making.

In this position, you will manage the full purchasing lifecycle, from sourcing and RFP preparation through to contract execution and purchase order management. You will collaborate closely with operations, finance, and supply chain teams to ensure timely, cost-effective procurement of goods and services. Your work will help optimise inventory levels, strengthen supplier performance, and support continuous improvement across the supply chain.

Responsibilities

• Execute end-to-end purchasing activities, including sourcing, quoting, and issuing purchase orders in line with company policies.
• Lead price and terms negotiations with suppliers to secure favourable agreements while maintaining quality and service levels.
• Develop and maintain strong vendor relationships, monitoring performance and resolving issues related to quality, delivery, and compliance.
• Prepare, issue, and manage Requests for Proposal (RFPs), coordinating internal requirements and evaluating supplier responses.
• Collaborate with supply chain and operations teams to align purchasing plans with demand forecasts and production schedules.
• Monitor and manage inventory levels, placing orders to prevent stockouts and minimise excess or obsolete stock.
• Review and manage contracts, ensuring adherence to agreed terms, pricing, and service commitments.
• Perform cost and spend analysis to identify savings opportunities, process improvements, and supplier consolidation initiatives.

Requirements

• Proven experience in a purchasing or procurement role with responsibility for end-to-end purchasing activities.
• Demonstrated success in supplier negotiation and vendor relationship management.
• Hands-on experience with purchase order creation, tracking, and reconciliation.
• Practical knowledge of contract management, including reviewing terms and monitoring compliance.
• Strong analytical skills with experience in cost analysis and data-driven decision-making.
• Working knowledge of inventory management practices and systems.
• Ability to coordinate with cross-functional teams within a supply chain or operations environment.
• Proficiency with procurement or ERP systems and intermediate-level Excel skills.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.

Skills

• Experience preparing and managing RFPs in a structured procurement environment.
• Background in manufacturing, distribution, or similar supply chain-intensive industries.
• Familiarity with supplier performance metrics and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Exposure to strategic sourcing projects or category management.
• Knowledge of relevant procurement regulations and best practices.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Finance, or a related field is preferred.
• Associate degree or equivalent combination of education and purchasing experience will be considered.
• Professional certification such as CPSM, CPIM, or CPP is an advantage.
• Ongoing professional development in procurement, supply chain, or contract management is beneficial.