Job Description:

Purchasing & Supply Manager

Sheffield – Conveniently located near Junction 34 of the M1

Six-Month Fixed-Term Contract | Full-Time

Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience

My client is seeking an experienced Purchasing & Supply Manager to join their Sheffield-based team on an initial six-month fixed-term contract.

They are looking for a practical, commercially focused purchasing professional with experience in engineering, manufacturing or a similar technical environment.

This is a hands-on role, taking responsibility for day-to-day purchasing, supplier relationships, stock control and the timely supply of materials and components to support business operations.

The successful candidate will be confident managing an established purchasing function, negotiating with suppliers and working closely with operational colleagues to ensure the business continues to run efficiently.

The appointment is initially for six months, with the possibility of an extension depending on business requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day purchasing activities, including sourcing materials, components, equipment and subcontract services.
• Develop and maintain effective relationships with existing and new suppliers.
• Negotiate competitive prices, commercial terms and supply agreements.
• Monitor stock levels and materials requirements to support operational and production schedules.
• Identify opportunities to reduce purchasing costs, improve efficiencies and streamline procurement processes.
• Manage purchase orders, deliveries and supplier queries, ensuring accurate records are maintained.
• Liaise with internal departments to understand purchasing requirements and resolve supply issues.
• Monitor supplier performance, including pricing, quality and delivery reliability.
• Support stock control, inventory management and associated administrative processes.
• Ensure purchasing activities comply with company procedures and quality standards.

About You

They are looking for someone who can quickly take ownership of the purchasing function and work effectively with minimal supervision.

You will ideally have:

• Substantial purchasing or procurement experience within an engineering, manufacturing or similar technical environment.
• A good understanding of raw materials, manufactured components and subcontract services.
• Proven experience of supplier negotiations, purchasing cost control and supply chain management.
• Practical knowledge of stock control, materials planning and purchasing systems.
• The ability to interpret technical specifications, drawings or bills of materials where required.
• Strong organisational, communication and problem-solving skills.
• Good IT skills, including Microsoft Office and experience of purchasing or ERP systems.
• A flexible, proactive approach and willingness to get involved in the day-to-day detail.

Previous experience as a Purchasing Manager, Procurement Manager, Senior Buyer or Materials Manager would be particularly relevant.

The Opportunity

This is an initial six-month fixed-term appointment to provide cover during an extended period of leave.

There may be an opportunity for the appointment to continue beyond the initial contract period, depending on business requirements. However, an extension or permanent appointment cannot be guaranteed.

We are particularly interested in candidates who are available to start at relatively short notice and can make an immediate contribution.