Purchasing Manager

Purchasing Manager – Manufacturing Hasting, East Sussex Up to £50,000 Our client is a specialist manufacturer (part of an international group) looking for a Purchasing Manager to run the procurement function and lead a small team of two. This is a genuinely interesting role for the right person. Manufacturing supply chains are a balancing act; overstock and you tie up cash; understock and long supplier lead times can stall production. They need someone who can manage that tension with confidence. They welcome first-time managers, if you have strong purchasing/supply chain experience but haven't formally line-managed before, this role offers development opportunities. Key Responsibilities – Purchasing Manager * Ensure timely component supply against production demand and the MRP * Build and negotiate supplier relationships & contracts; source new vendors as needed * Set and monitor stock levels to balance availability against excess inventory * Track supplier performance, quality and delivery reliability against costs * Lead inventory audits and support continuous improvement (Lean, 5S) * Manage and develop a small team – logistics & buyer * Occasional travel required for supplier meetings. Essential Requirements – Purchasing Manager * 5+ years' purchasing/supply chain experience, ideally in manufacturing or a similar production environment * Strong understanding of stock/inventory management, particularly balancing buffer stock against long supplier lead times * Good grasp of procurement processes, sourcing strategy and supply chain risk * Familiarity with MRP/ERP systems * Proficient in Microsoft Office and purchasing software * Strong financial and commercial acumen Desirable * Prior line management experience (not essential, support available for first-time managers) * CPSM or CIPS qualification