Purchase Manager

Job Overview

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Purchase Manager to join our growing business. The company supplies cutlery, dishes, spoons, forks, knives, tissues, bowls, plates, napkins, takeaway containers, food packaging and catering consumables to food companies, restaurants, takeaways, caterers, wholesalers and food service businesses.

The successful candidate will be responsible for managing purchasing activities, sourcing reliable suppliers, negotiating prices, maintaining stock availability, controlling purchase costs and supporting the company’s supply chain operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Source and purchase cutlery, dishes, spoons, forks, knives, bowls, plates, tissues, napkins, takeaway containers, food packaging and other catering consumables.
• Identify and develop relationships with reliable local and international suppliers, manufacturers, wholesalers and distributors.
• Obtain quotations from suppliers and compare price, quality, minimum order quantity, lead time, delivery terms and payment terms.
• Negotiate competitive prices, bulk discounts, credit terms and long-term supply agreements.
• Maintain and update the approved supplier list, price lists and product catalogues.
• Monitor stock levels and arrange timely purchasing to prevent shortages and overstocking.
• Work closely with the sales team to understand customer demand, fast-moving products, seasonal requirements and new product opportunities.
• Prepare purchase orders and ensure product description, quantity, price, delivery address and expected delivery date are recorded accurately.
• Coordinate with suppliers regarding order confirmation, production status, dispatch, shipping and delivery schedules.
• Liaise with warehouse and logistics teams to ensure goods are received on time and in good condition.
• Check product quality, packaging, size, material, durability and suitability for food service customers.
• Ensure food contact products and packaging materials are purchased from suitable suppliers with appropriate product information and compliance documents where required.
• Support import purchasing activities including shipping coordination, customs documents, freight costs and delivery planning.
• Resolve supplier issues such as late delivery, damaged goods, wrong products, shortages, price discrepancies or poor product quality.
• Review supplier performance and recommend improvements or alternative suppliers where necessary.
• Support the development of new product ranges, including eco-friendly, biodegradable, compostable and premium catering products.
• Prepare regular purchasing reports for management, including cost savings, supplier performance, stock availability and market price changes.

Required Skills and Experience

• Previous experience in purchasing, procurement, supply chain, wholesale, catering supplies, food packaging, FMCG, retail or distribution.
• Good knowledge of cutlery, tableware, food packaging, catering disposables or related products is desirable.
• Strong negotiation and communication skills.
• Ability to compare suppliers, prices, product specifications and delivery options.
• Good understanding of stock control, purchase orders, supplier management and warehouse coordination.
• Strong attention to detail when checking product descriptions, quantities, sizes, prices and delivery details.
• Ability to work under pressure and respond quickly to urgent stock requirements.
• Good computer skills, including Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, inventory
• Good written and spoken English.

Personal Qualities

• Commercially focused and cost-conscious.
• Well organised and able to manage multiple suppliers and product lines.
• Proactive approach to finding better prices and reliable suppliers.
• Able to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong problem-solving ability.
• Reliable, professional and committed to maintaining good supplier relationships.

Benefits

• Competitive salary of £35,000 to £40,000 per annum.
• Full-time, permanent position.
• Opportunity to work with a growing food service and catering supply business.
• Career development opportunities.
• Supportive working environment.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their CV and a short covering letter outlining their purchasing experience and suitability for the role.