Senior Purchasing Assistant

This company is the UK's market leader in the manufacture of Steel Security Doors and continues to enjoy consistent growth year on year.

To support the Purchasing Manager with delivery of a commercial purchasing function for all the company's expenditure with external suppliers. Deputise for the Purchasing Manager as required.

Main Responsibilities:
- Assist with the development and management of the purchasing department alongside the Purchasing Manager
- Assist with the Development and delivery of a purchasing strategy across the group to deliver the target benefits and financial savings.
- To take ownership of designated material and customer project supply requirements as identified by the Purchasing Manager
- Assist with the establishment of new processes and systems for effective purchasing across the group, investigate opportunities for broader savings in inventory and warehousing costs by conducting in-house vs outsource reviews.
- To assist with the implementation of continuous improvements where necessary to ensure that costs are effectively monitored, reported and controlled in line with company finance procedures.
- To assist with the monthly reporting of key materials and supplier spend levels and also to deliver suggested improvements in processes within Purchasing to improve efficiency levels and reduce costs where possible
- To assist with and where required lead supplier negotiations, recommend supplier selection and implement contracts and supplier monitoring processes designed to encourage continual improvement.
- Assist proactively with the minimisation of supply risk of any material and ensure that contingency options exist wherever possible at all times
- Any other ad hoc duties as and when required by management

Essential skills and knowledge:

Education:
Educated to degree standard ideally

Professional qualifications:
- Chartered Institute of Purchasing & Supply (CIPS) preferred

Experience:
- Strong proven background in purchasing in a similar Senior role.
- Proactive approach in reviewing current systems and procedures.
- Strong IT, Reporting and communication skills