Job Title: Purchasing Manager
Location: Essex **You must live no further than 45 mins from Epping**
Reports to: Director
Salary: £70-80K – Based on Experience
Are you a dynamic and strategic Purchasing Manager looking to make a significant impact? My client, a renowned supplier of electrical and mechanical workshop equipment, is seeking an experienced professional to lead their procurement function. Supplying markets across the DIY, Automotive, Industrial, and Export sectors worldwide, they need a commercially savvy leader to drive their sourcing strategy, ensuring a seamless supply chain and optimised product offerings.
The Role
As Purchasing Manager, you’ll play a pivotal role in overseeing all purchasing operations, working closely with directors and cross-functional teams. You’ll lead a team of buyers responsible for sourcing an extensive range of finished goods, primarily from China and East Asia, as well as suppliers across the EU.
Your Key Responsibilities:
* Spearhead the selection and procurement of new products for wholesale and retail trade.
* Oversee stock purchasing decisions, pricing approvals, and ensure full product availability.
* Identify new product opportunities to enhance market offerings and stay ahead of competitors.
* Collaborate with buying, testing, and marketing teams to ensure products are launched on time.
* Manage product testing schedules and evaluations to comply with current industry directives.
* Review inbound quality control reports, product evaluations, and warranty feedback, taking decisive action where necessary.
* Work alongside marketing teams to develop promotional strategies and product positioning.
* Drive the import process, from sourcing through private label development and branding.
* Set trade and retail pricing, ensuring competitive positioning while maintaining profit margins.
* Continuously assess the market landscape to keep product ranges fresh and competitive.
* Select and manage inbound shipping agencies to optimise logistics.
What You’ll Need to Succeed
* A proven history in procurement and supply chain management within a wholesale environment, with at least 10 years in a leadership role.
* Strong entrepreneurial mindset with a proactive, problem-solving approach.
* Experience sourcing finished consumer products directly from East Asia (essential).
* Excellent commercial acumen with the ability to influence senior stakeholders and financial decisions.
* A strategic mindset with the ability to plan, prioritise, and delegate effectively.
* Strong leadership skills with a history of successfully managing procurement teams.
* In-depth knowledge of key market commodities, supplier networks, and industry trends.
* Excellent negotiation, communication, and decision-making skills.
Why Join?
This is an exciting opportunity to step into a senior leadership role in a fast-paced, evolving business. My client offers an attractive package and a supportive environment where you can truly make an impact.