Purchasing Manager

Purchasing Manager

Location: Chertsey, Surrey
Working Arrangement: 4 days per week on-site

We are recruiting an experienced Purchasing Manager to lead a team of Product Coordinators and oversee purchasing, demand planning and inventory management within a B2B environment.

This is a mix of a hands-on operational role with leadership responsibilities, responsible for ensuring product availability, optimising stock levels, strengthening supplier relationships and driving an efficient end-to-end purchasing operation.

Key Responsibilities

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Lead, coach and develop a team of 4–8 Product Coordinators.

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Oversee purchasing activities, ensuring orders are accurate, timely and aligned with business requirements.

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Develop and maintain short- to medium-term demand forecasts using historical sales data, purchasing trends and market insights.

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Manage replenishment strategies, including MRP and safety stock parameters.

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Optimise inventory levels, minimising excess and aged stock while maintaining product availability.

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Monitor stock performance, identifying risks and opportunities to improve inventory efficiency.

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Produce and present monthly inventory reports, KPIs and management insights.

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Work closely with Product Management, Sales, Finance and Supply Chain teams to ensure effective planning and execution.

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Manage supplier relationships, including lead times, pricing, availability and service quality.

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Support new product introductions, supplier onboarding and master data management.

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Ensure purchasing activities comply with internal procedures and approval limits.

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Drive continuous improvement across demand planning, purchasing and replenishment processes.

Experience & Skills Required

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Minimum 3 years' experience in purchasing or supply chain coordination, ideally within a B2B environment (preferably manufacturing or distribution).

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At least 3 years' experience in a people management or team leadership role.

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Strong end-to-end supply chain and inventory management knowledge.

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Proven experience in demand planning, forecasting and replenishment.

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Excellent analytical skills and confidence working with complex data and reporting.

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Experience using ERP systems, SAP BI/SAC dashboards or similar reporting tools.

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Strong supplier management skills, particularly around pricing, lead times and stock availability.

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Understanding of international shipping, Incoterms, customs and import/export processes.

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Excellent communication, presentation and stakeholder management skills.

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A proactive, commercially minded and solutions-focused approach.

Desirable:

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CIPS Level 2 or above, or a relevant procurement/supply chain qualification.

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Knowledge of international supply chains and additional EMEA languages.

The Opportunity

An excellent opportunity for an established purchasing or supply chain professional to take ownership of a team, influence inventory performance and make a tangible impact on purchasing operations within an international B2B distribution business.

Location: Chertsey, Surrey – 4 days per week on-site.

*Please note visa sponsorship is not available for this role