Reporting To
Head of Purchasing
Overview
Within our quality based Aerospace and Manufacting support environment, we are seeking a proactive, organised and commercially aware individual to support our fast-paced purchasing operation. Ideal for a trainable person with potential to take ownership of the role going forward.
This is a key role focused on supplier communication, purchase order progress chasing, delivery management, internal coordination, and maintaining accurate systems to help ensure customer deadlines are met.
This role involves regular daily telephone contact with UK and international suppliers to progress orders, obtain updates, resolve delays and secure on-time deliveries.
The successful candidate will be highly organised, confident communicating with suppliers, and comfortable working in a busy environment where priorities can change quickly.
Main Responsibilities
*Daily telephone progress chasing of suppliers for live purchase orders
*Obtain accurate delivery updates and expedite urgent requirements by phone and email
*Escalate delayed or problematic orders to management where required
*Build strong working relationships with suppliers through regular communication
*Process supplier order acknowledgements and invoices
*Resolve supplier account and paperwork queries
*Update internal systems accurately with order progress notes
*Support the Purchasing team with sourcing and administrative tasks
*Liaise with Sales, Goods In, Accounts and Management teams
*Help maintain supplier performance standards
*Monitor open orders and overdue commitments
*Assist with contract and customer-specific purchasing requirements
*Maintain organised digital and paper records
*Cross train to provide absence or workload cover for other roles
*Support continuous improvement initiatives
*Work in line with company quality procedures and internal systems
Skills & Experience Required
*3–5+ years’ experience in an office environment
*Confident and professional telephone manner
*Strong telephone communication, negotiation and influencing skills
*Comfortable speaking with suppliers daily
*Excellent organisation and attention to detail
*Ability to manage multiple priorities
*Good numerical and computer skills
*Confident using databases, spreadsheets and email systems
*Strong sense of urgency and follow-through
*Positive attitude with team-focused approach
*Able to work under pressure and meet deadlines
*Professional and dependable manner
Ideal Candidate
Someone who enjoys getting things done, keeping suppliers accountable, solving delays, and helping a busy team perform at a high level.
What Success Looks Like
*Purchase orders actively managed and chased before delays occur
*Strong supplier responsiveness and relationships
*Clear internal communication
*Accurate systems and records
*Improved on-time delivery performance
*Strong effective support to Purchasing and Sales teams and wider business