Purchasing Manager Dagenham Specialist Automotive Excellent salary between £60,000 - £70,000, flexible benefits package Main Purpose Are you ready to lead, inspire, and make a tangible impact? As the Purchasing Manager, you will take charge of a purchasing team, ensuring production facilities are always stocked with the right materials, at the right time, and at the right cost. You'll be at the forefront of optimising supplier performance and driving cost efficiency, all while implementing innovative strategies that keep us ahead of the curve. Metrics-driven and focused on continuous improvement, you'll champion excellence in processes, logistics, and team performance to deliver exceptional results. Scope & Reporting This is a salaried role based on a fixed day shift, subject to adjustment with business needs. Reporting directly to the Supply Chain Director. Oversee and mentor direct reports across multiple production sites and countries. Key Responsibilities Leadership & Team Management Inspire and coordinate the purchasing team, ensuring tasks are completed on time and to high standards. Cultivate a culture of positivity, engagement, and continuous improvement through effective 1-2-1s, appraisals, and development plans. Strategic & Operational Excellence Develop and execute robust commodity strategies. Challenge and refine internal processes to drive efficiency and performance. Support the Supply Chain Director with budget preparation and provide actionable insights for strategic decision-making. Step in as Supply Chain Director when required. Supplier & Inventory Management Build strong supplier relationships: monitor performance, provide feedback, and pro actively mitigate risks. Negotiate terms, secure long-term agreements, and ensure supplier compliance with Quality, Cost, and Delivery (QCD) standards. Optimize inventory management to maintain target levels, reduce waste, and boost customer service. Identify and address obsolete stock issues to minimize financial impacts. Continuous Improvement Lead supplier development initiatives and benchmarking exercises to maintain a competitive edge. Work collaboratively as part of the Supply Chain Leadership Team, using data to measure, analyse, and enhance business impact. What We’re Looking For Qualifications & Experience Proven expertise in international sourcing and manufacturing procurement. Proficiency with MRP & ERP systems (Epicor experience is a plus). Familiarity with CI or Lean Methodologies. A solid understanding of engineering is highly desirable. A CIPS qualification (or willingness to obtain one) is a strong advantage. Skills & Attributes Sharp commercial and financial acumen. Ability to thrive in a fast-paced SME environment. Proactive problem-solver and innovator with a drive for continuous improvement. Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills to build strong relationships across teams and with suppliers. Resilient under pressure with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines. Core Competencies Leadership: Inspires teams and drives results. Problem-Solving: Tackles challenges head-on, identifying root causes and implementing swift solutions. Change Agent: Advocates for continuous improvement and efficiency. Business Awareness: Thinks strategically while managing the finer details. Cost Control: Balances budgets and ensures cost-effective solutions. Join us in shaping the future of supply chain management, driving innovation, and setting new benchmarks in operational excellence. Ready to make your mark? Apply now and lead the charge! Your CV will be forwarded to Jonathan Lee Recruitment, a leading engineering and manufacturing recruitment consultancy established in 1978. The services advertised by Jonathan Lee Recruitment are those of an Employment Agency. In order for your CV to be processed effectively, please ensure your name, email address, phone number and location (post code OR town OR county, as a minimum) are included