Procurement Manager

ALF Recruit have been engaged to recruit an Inventory and Supply Manager for a fast-paced, regulated distribution business based in Salford. This is a role for someone who wants genuine ownership of stock health rather than just reporting on it. You’ll lead a buying team, hold the line on inventory KPIs, and be the escalation point when supplier service or availability slips. It’s a business where the numbers behind the scenes actually get acted on, not just presented. What you’ll get * £50,000 – £55,000 depending on experience * 10% annual bonus * Hybrid working – 3 days a week in the office * Enhanced maternity leave * Enhanced paternity leave * Company pension * Life insurance * Cycle to work scheme * Bereavement leave * Company events * Free / onsite parking What you’ll be doing * Owning the inventory operating framework and making sure it’s applied consistently * Leading, coaching and developing a buying team, setting priorities and holding the line on KPIs * Acting as the primary operational escalation point for supplier stock and service issues * Owning cost price governance across the portfolio, challenging anomalies as they arise * Reporting on availability, working capital, inventory cover and supplier performance, and using it to drive real change * Supporting the rollout of a new ERP system and pushing for smarter, more automated reporting * Picking up ad hoc projects as they arise, and supporting the wider procurement function where needed What we’re looking for * Previous experience in procurement, inventory management or supply chain leadership within a regulated or high-compliance environment * A proven track record of managing or developing a team * Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with advanced Excel and data interpretation ability * Excellent commercial awareness and the confidence to challenge when the numbers don’t add up * Experience of supplier relationship management * Strong communication and stakeholder management skills Desirable: experience with ERP systems (NetSuite, SAP or similar), exposure to Power BI or other reporting tools, and an understanding of inventory optimisation principles. If you’re an inventory or procurement leader who wants genuine ownership rather than a steady-state function, this is well worth a conversation. Apply directly or get in touch with Joanne Sizer at ALF Recruit for a private and confidential discussion