Vickerstock are working in partnership with a long-established food manufacturer who are seeking to appoint a Purchasing & Supply Chain Assistant to join their growing procurement team.

This role is suitable for someone with around 12 months’ experience in purchasing or supply chain position – or a graduate in a relevant area who looking to kick start their career in procurement.

You’ll be joining a close-knit and supportive business where employee development is a genuine focus. The Procurement Manager is hands-on, supportive, and passionate about helping new talent progress.

The Role

You’ll play a key supporting role in the day-to-day purchasing function, working closely with suppliers and internal teams to keep materials flowing smoothly and ensure quality and compliance at every step.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Supporting supplier negotiations through cost analysis, offer evaluation, and contract finalisation.
• Assisting with supplier sourcing and qualification, ensuring compliance with food safety, quality, and regulatory standards.
• Working alongside Quality Assurance and R&D to maintain strict food safety and product quality.
• Managing raw material inventory by reviewing forecasts and raising purchase orders.
• Tracking open orders, expediting deliveries when needed, and coordinating with Stores and suppliers.
• Contributing to global and regional procurement projects as part of a wider cross-functional team.
• Maintaining accurate supplier contract records.
• Collaborating with Finance to ensure invoices are approved on time and any queries are quickly resolved.

What You’ll Need

• Around 12 months’ experiencewithin a purchasing or supply chain role (placement year or post-grad included).
• Strong IT skills and confidence using Microsoft Excel and ERP systems (e.g. Sage 200).
• A methodical approach with strong organisational and time management skills.
• Excellent communication skills – written and verbal.
• High attention to detail, analytical mindset, and a head for numbers.
• A proactive attitude and a willingness to learn (negotiation training will be provided).

What’s in it for you

• Company pension (Up to 5% matached)
• Enhanced paternity and maternity pay
• A supportive manager genuinely invested in your development.
• Opportunity to gain full end-to-end procurement experience in a fast-paced manufacturing environment

To discuss this position further, please contact our supply chain specialist Michael Irwin for a confidential discussion.

Skills:
procurement purchasing supply chain manufacturing fmcg excel sage

Benefits:
enhanced maternity/paternity pension