Materials Coordinator / Materials Management Support

Materials Coordinator / Materials Management Support Required Bedford We are looking for a sharp, proactive Materials Management Assistant to support our Materials Management (MM) Lead. In this role, our primary focus is simple but critical: ensure we have the right stock, in the right place, at the right time. You will play a key hands-on role in the end-to-end purchasing cycle-from helping to create monthly replenishment offers to chasing suppliers and ensuring our system data is always accurate. Key Responsibilities Procurement & Replenishment Assist the MM Lead in the creation of monthly purchase offers to maintain optimal stock levels. Generate and process Purchase Orders (POs) based on inventory data and sales trends. Ensure alignment with suppliers regarding pricing, quantities, and delivery schedules.Order Management & Expediting Maintain a constant check on the status of all open Purchase Orders. Proactively expedite purchase orders and communicate with suppliers to secure realistic, updated arrival dates. Act as the first line of defense against stock shortages by identifying at-risk orders.Data & Systems Accuracy Ensure the inventory management system is updated with correct and current incoming stock dates. Communication & Administration Monitor the Materials Management inbox diligently. Respond to internal queries regarding stock status and incoming deliveries. Identify and action any issues (delays & potential stockouts) in a timely manner, escalating to the MM Lead when necessary. Who You Are We are looking for someone with a natural curiosity for how things work. You don't just process data; you ask why the stock is low or how can we avoid future stock outs Essential Traits & Experience: Interest in the Field: A genuine interest in purchasing, supply chain, or inventory analytics. This could be proven by previous experience or by a strong desire to learn. Analytical Mindset: Comfortable working with numbers, spreadsheets, and data to make decisions. Natural Curiosity: You question the status quo and want to understand the "why" behind the numbers. Proactive Communicator: You are comfortable picking up the phone to chase a supplier or emailing a colleague to solve a problem. Organized: Ability to manage multiple open POs and competing priorities in a fast-paced environment. Desirable (but not essential): Previous experience in a purchasing/admin role within wholesale, distribution, or manufacturing. Familiarity with Inventory management software or SAP Proactive Global is committed to equality in the workplace and is an equal opportunity employer. Proactive Global is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy