Purchasing Assistant

Supporting the Procurement Manager in purchasing ingredients, packaging and consumables in a way that protects quality, ensures cost-effectiveness, and maintains the brand's strong commitment to natural ingredients and sustainable production. The role ensures efficient stock availability, accurate data management, and collaborative supplier relationships to help deliver smooth operations and continued brand growth.

Client Details

Our client is a medium-sized enterprise operating within the FMCG industry. They are known for their commitment to providing high-quality products and maintaining efficient supply chain processes to meet market demands.

Description

1. Purchasing & Procurement Support

Assist the Procurement Manager with ordering raw materials, ingredients, packaging and consumables

Place purchase orders accurately and ensure alignment with production schedules and forecasted demand.

Monitor stock levels for key ingredients and packaging, identifying risks early (e.g., seasonal fruit shortages, long-lead packaging items).

Support new product development (NPD) sourcing activities by gathering supplier samples, pricing, and documentation.

2. Supplier Coordination

Communicate with UK and international suppliers regarding availability, lead times, and order progress.

Support ongoing negotiations around pricing, minimum order quantities, and contracts.

Track supplier performance against quality, service, and sustainability standards.

Ensure supplier documents (spec sheets, allergen info, certifications, sustainability credentials) are up to date.

3. Production & Logistics Support

Liaise closely with the planning, warehousing, and production teams to ensure materials arrive on time and in the correct quantities.

Help resolve any delivery or quality issues-such as incorrect quantities, late deliveries, or packaging defects.

Support the management of seasonal procurement cycles

4. Data & Administrative Duties

Maintain accurate records in the MRP system, including pricing, supplier data, product codes, and lead times.

Assist in preparing procurement reports, cost-tracking spreadsheets, and category performance summaries.

Support cost change processes, ensuring timely communication with finance and production teams.

5. Quality, Compliance & Sustainability

Ensure purchased materials meet high quality and natural ingredient standards.

Assist with supplier audits and certifications (e.g., BRCGS, organic, sustainability accreditation's).

Help maintain compliance with food safety, traceability, and environmental standards.

Profile

A successful Purchasing Assistant should have:

Technical Skills

Basic understanding of procurement processes and supply chain.

Strong Excel skills and comfortable working with data.

Experience with MRP systems.

Understanding of food or beverage production preferred.

Soft Skills

Strong communication and relationship-building skills.

High attention to detail and accuracy.

Organised, reliable, and able to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

Good analytical ability and confidence with numbers.

Proactive problem solver with a hands-on approach.

Experience & Qualifications

Experience in purchasing, supply chain, or FMCG is an advantage but not essential for junior candidates.

Background in food, drink, or manufacturing procurement is beneficial.

GCSEs/A-Levels or equivalent required; business, supply chain, or food science qualifications desirable.

Job Offer

• Competitive salary up to 36,500 per annum.
• Permanent position offering stability and growth opportunities.
• Be part of a reputable company in the FMCG industry.
• Opportunity to work in a supportive and collaborative environment in Nottingham.
• Comprehensive benefits package to support your professional and personal needs.

If you are ready to take the next step in your career as a Purchasing Assistant and join a thriving team in Nottingham, we encourage you to apply today!