Purchaser – Manufacturing Operations

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Purchaser to join the Operations team of a well‑established manufacturing business in Birmingham. The role will focus on securing raw materials and components, building supplier relationships and supporting production schedules. You will receive a structured handover from the outgoing Purchaser, ensuring a smooth transition.

Key responsibilities

• Raise and process purchase orders using the company's ERP system.
• Build and maintain strong supplier relationships, monitoring pricing, lead times and delivery performance.
• Source materials and components to meet production requirements.
• Use MRP planning tools to forecast material demand and ensure stock availability.
• Review and maintain reorder levels and safety stock to prevent shortages.
• Manage blanket orders and supplier agreements.
• Set up new suppliers and maintain purchasing information within the ERP system.
• Create new material and purchasing codes where required.
• Process internal purchasing requests and source suitable products.
• Liaise with Stock Control, Goods In and Production teams to ensure timely receipt of materials.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives to enhance purchasing processes and supplier performance.

Required profile

• Proven experience as a Purchaser, Buyer or in Procurement within a manufacturing environment.
• Experience purchasing metals, steel, aluminium or other engineering materials (highly advantageous).
• Good understanding of MRP (Material Requirements Planning) and ERP systems.
• Experience managing supplier relationships, negotiating lead times and monitoring performance.
• Knowledge of inventory management, reorder levels and stock control.
• Strong organisational skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Confident communicator able to work collaboratively across multiple departments.
• Proactive and self‑motivated.

Required skills

• ERP systems
• MRP planning tools
• Inventory management
• Purchase order processing