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Title: Buyer | Location: Dartford | £35,000 - £38,000 DOE
Work Pattern: Hybrid (3 days office, 2 days from home)

You must be a car driver for this opportunity due to the location of the warehouse. Please do not apply if you are reliant on public transport. Please ensure your location is clearly written on your CV.

About the Role

We are seeking a motivated Procurement Support Specialist to join our clients procurement team, supporting operations across two manufacturing sites. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to develop their career in procurement while making a meaningful contribution to supplier portfolio development across packaging, ingredients, and third-party manufacturing.

Key Responsibilities

Procurement Administration & Data Management

- Maintain ERP data systems (JD Edwards) including price updates and supplier setup
- Provide comprehensive administrative support to the procurement team
- Manage invoice queries and resolution processes
- Compile regular reports including monthly/annual spend data and PPV KPIs
- Monitor On-Time In-Full (OTIF) delivery and quality metrics, including DMR management
- Track and report on productivity savings initiatives

Strategic Sourcing & Contract Management

- Lead full tender processes for strategic sourcing initiatives
- Negotiate and execute contractual agreements for packaging, ingredients, and third-party products
- Ensure optimal trade terms, cost efficiency, quality standards, and service delivery
- Research and analyse global markets to identify new suppliers for current and future business needs

Market Intelligence & Innovation

- Develop understanding of key commodity markets and present market insights

- Contribute to financial budget development across all procurement categories

- Drive innovation initiatives for packaging, ingredients, and third-party products

Supplier Relationship Management

- Manage purchase order administration through JD Edwards system
- Coordinate artwork amendments and new designs with printers through close marketing liaison
- Conduct quarterly supplier performance reviews with key stakeholders
- Support Planning, Technical, and Operations teams with supplier-related issues

Additional Responsibilities

- Support indirect procurement requirements including energy, freight, transport, facilities, and waste management
- Potential for domestic and international travel as required

What We're Looking For

Essential Skills & Attributes

Strong administrative and organisational capabilities
Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
Confident presentation abilities
Solid understanding of end-to-end sourcing processes
Project management experience
Effective time management skills
Flexible, open-minded approach to work
Strong team collaboration skills
Genuine desire to develop and progress within procurement

Experience & Qualifications

Previous procurement experience would be advantageous
Relevant qualifications in procurement, supply chain, or business would be beneficial

Company Benefits:

- Holidays: 25 days (increasing to 28 days with service).
- Additional Leave: Up to 10 extra days for long service milestones.
- Pension: Group personal pension with 4% company contribution.
- Life Cover: 3 x salary paid to your nominated beneficiary.
- Maternity Pay: Occupational maternity pay plus SMP.
- Accident Cover: Disability compensation payment.
- Health & Wellbeing: BUPA & BUPA cash plan (individual or family).
- Recognition: Employee Star Award.
- Lunches & Drinks: Free lunch every day (valued at £700) + free drinks.
- Social: Heavily subsidised sports & social events + annual company BBQ.
- Annual Flu Vaccination: Provided for all employees.

Additional Notes:

Car Driver Required: The office is not accessible via public transport; therefore, a valid driving license and access to a car is essential.

Please mention your location in your CV. Applications without location details may experience delays in processing.

Eligibility: Only applicants with UK residency and full visa status will be considered. Applications from those outside of the UK will not be shortlisted. If you plan to relocate, please mention this in your CV or cover letter