Purchasing & Procurement Manager

Purchasing & Procurement Manager – ManufacturingWe’re recruiting on behalf of our client, a rapidly growing manufacturer transitioning from SME to medium-sized enterprise. They are seeking a Purchasing & Procurement Manager to lead a team of three in a fast-paced, engineered-to-order environment. This is a newly created role reporting directly to the Procurement & Supply Chain Director, offering the opportunity to shape procurement strategy, enhance supplier performance, and implement best-in-class purchasing practices. Responsibilities: Lead and develop a team of three buyers to ensure timely, cost-effective procurement. Build and maintain strategic global supplier relationships across Europe, China, and the USA.

Drive department KPIs for on-time delivery, supplier performance, cost savings, and stock control. Implement Supplier Managed Inventory (SMI) programs with key vendors. Identify and deliver freight cost reduction and inventory optimisation initiatives. Oversee purchase order accuracy and compliance with the Approved Vendor List (AVL). Maintain and enhance procurement policies in line with ISO/QMS standards. Collaborate with production, engineering, and warehousing to ensure material availability. Introduce lean practices to improve procurement workflows. Support forecasting and long-term supplier planning for greater business visibility. Requirements: Degree/diploma in Business, Supply Chain, Engineering, or related field.

5+ years’ purchasing/procurement leadership in manufacturing or engineering. Proven record in supplier management, cost reduction, and KPI delivery. Strong commercial and financial acumen with experience in international supplier agreements. Advanced MS Office skills, especially Excel. Key CompetenciesInspirational leadership and team development skills. Excellent negotiation and supplier management ability. Analytical, detail-oriented, and solutions-focused. Resilient, adaptable, and results-driven. Strong cross-functional communication skills. For a confidential conversation about the role contact Owen Clancy at oclancy@sterlingengineeringeu. com By applying to this job post you agree that Sterling Engineering may process your personal data for recruitment purpose