Purchasing / Supply Chain Manager

*applications must display full right to work in the UK, no sponsorship or visa applications, they will be rejected*

Purchasing Manager / Supply Chain Manager
Location: Kent
Salary: Competitive + Benefits
Business: W Talent

W Talent is partnering with a market-leading organisation in the electronic controls sector to recruit an experienced Purchasing Manager who may also come from a manufactruing/assembly Supply Chain Manager background (NOT DISTRIBUTION OR LOGISTICS). This is a high-impact role within a growing business, offering the opportunity to shape procurement strategy, optimise supply chain performance, and directly support continued expansion.

The Role
As Purchasing Manager, you will take ownership of end-to-end procurement across a global supply chain. You will lead SIOP activity, drive forecasting accuracy, and ensure optimal inventory levels while mitigating supply chain risk. This is a commercially focused role requiring strong stakeholder engagement and the ability to influence both internal and external partners.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and develop procurement strategy aligned to business objectives
• Own the SIOP/S&OP process, driving forecasting accuracy and inventory optimisation (including reducing excess stock and avoiding stock-outs)
• Identify and deliver cost-saving initiatives in a controlled, risk-aware manner
• Manage and influence supplier relationships, including leading key negotiations and contracts
• Drive supply chain performance through KPIs (OTD, inventory value, stock days, PO accuracy)
• Utilise ERP systems to ensure efficient and accurate purchasing processes
• Coach and develop a direct report, building capability within the function

About You
We are looking for a commercially aware procurement professional who combines technical expertise with strong behavioural competencies:

Skills & Experience

• Proven background in procurement or supply chain within a manufacturing/industrial environment
• Strong experience in forecasting, SIOP/S&OP/IBP processes, with a focus on tangible results (e.g. inventory reduction, service improvement)
• Demonstrable success in supplier negotiation and global supply chain management
• Experience working with ERP systems (Business Central or similar)
• Solid understanding of supply chain risk mitigation and optimisation

Key Competencies

• Drive: A results-oriented mindset with resilience and a track record of delivering against challenging targets
• Initiative: Proactive, solutions-focused, and comfortable operating with autonomy
• Influence: Strong stakeholder management skills with the ability to challenge, engage and gain buy-in at all levels

Why Apply?
This is an opportunity to join a forward-thinking, growing organisation where you can make a visible impact. You''ll play a key role in shaping the supply chain strategy while developing both people and processes in a dynamic environment.