Purchasing Manager – Fixed‑Term (12‑15 months)

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Purchasing Manager to lead the procurement function for a manufacturing organisation near Middlesbrough. This 12‑15 month fixed‑term position covers a maternity leave period and offers a competitive package with early Friday finishes.

Key responsibilities

• Lead, supervise and support the purchasing team to meet departmental goals.
• Collaborate with the Operations Management Team to align purchasing with business needs.
• Monitor purchasing activities to ensure quality, cost control and timely delivery.
• Manage non‑manufacturing and project purchases efficiently.
• Maintain accurate inventory data, optimise stock levels and improve stock turns.
• Own and update the purchasing manual, work instructions and processes.
• Maintain the Supply Chain Risk Register and report major concerns to the Operations Director.
• Produce monthly KPI reports and develop tools for supplier performance monitoring.
• Resolve supplier issues, escalations and team challenges.
• Travel as required to build and sustain supplier relationships.

Required profile

• Experience in the manufacturing sector.
• At least 2 years of purchasing management experience with people‑management responsibilities.
• Proven negotiation, supplier relationship and contract management abilities.
• Familiarity with ERP systems.
• Strong leadership, adaptability, attention to detail and problem‑solving skills.
• CIPS qualification advantageous but not essential.

Required skills

• ERP systems

What we offer

• Competitive salary and 7% employer pension contribution.
• Early Friday finishes and flexible holiday schemes.
• 24 days holiday plus bank holidays, birthday holiday and purchase holiday scheme.
• Enhanced sick leave, health‑care cash plan and other benefits.