Purchasing Manager Location: Sunderland Salary: £50,000 - £60,000 Job Type: Full-time, occasional travel required We are inviting an experienced Purchasing Manager to join our client, a well-established and progressive business in an exciting role which will be critical in positively shaping further growth within the organisation. Responsibilities: Strategic Procurement Development: Craft and execute strategies focusing on cost reduction, quality enhancement, and supplier performance. Collaborate with the Sales Manager to predict needs and ensure a seamless supply chain. Team Leadership: Direct a team of 4 Category Buyers and 1 Purchasing Administrator. Establish objectives, performance standards, and KPIs, fostering a collaborative environment. Supplier Relationship Management: Sustain robust relationships with suppliers, negotiate terms, and conduct performance assessments. Explore new supplier partnerships to broaden the supplier base. Cost Oversight: Manage procurement budgets, spearhead cost-saving initiatives, and evaluate market conditions to ensure competitiveness. Inventory Management: Collaborate with the Inventory Management Committee to optimize stock levels and minimize waste. Contract and Risk Oversight: Administer contracts and mitigate supply chain risks. Performance Reporting and Analysis: Deliver insights on purchasing performance, cost savings, and market trends to support strategic decisions. Regulatory Compliance and Sustainability: Ensure procurement activities adhere to legal standards and promote sustainable sourcing. Required Skills & Qualifications: Ideally Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, or a related field; CIPS qualification would be beneficial. At least 5 years of experience in procurement or supply chain management Demonstrated leadership and team management capabilities. Robust negotiation and analytical skills. Strong communication skills and proficiency in procurement software and MS Office. Benefits: Compensation & Bonus: Competitive salary with an annual bonus based on personal and company performance. Pension Contribution: 5% employer contribution, 4% employee contribution minimum via salary sacrifice. Additional Perks: Life scheme, income protection, employee assistance program, tech-scheme, cycle work scheme, flu jab, and training opportunities. Holiday Entitlement: 20 days initially, increasing to 25 days after 10 years, plus all UK Bank Holidays, Annual Christmas shutdown and birthdays off.