Materials Buyer

Wolviston Management Services are proud to be supporting our client in the appointment of a Materials Buyer. This is a key role within a fast-paced manufacturing environment, responsible for the strategic procurement of direct materials.

You will play a pivotal role in ensuring continuity of supply while driving cost efficiency, quality, sustainability and innovation. Working closely with cross-functional teams, you'll support business growth through robust sourcing strategies and strong supplier partnerships.
 
Key Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver effective procurement strategies for packaging and printed materials.
• Drive sustainable and innovative packaging solutions aligned with environmental and business objectives.
• Identify, evaluate and manage supplier relationships to ensure long-term performance and reliability.
• Negotiate commercial contracts and service agreements to secure best value and competitive terms.
• Monitor supplier performance, implementing continuous improvement initiatives where required.
• Collaborate with Planning and Production to maintain accurate forecasts and ensure continuity of supply.
• Manage stock levels to minimise risk of shortages or excess inventory.
• Analyse market trends and pricing to identify savings and mitigate cost pressures.
• Deliver measurable cost reductions without compromising quality, compliance or service levels.
• Act as the internal subject matter expert for packaging procurement.
• Work closely with Production, Warehousing, Distribution and NPD teams to meet operational and development needs.
• Ensure full compliance with company policies, ethical standards and industry regulations, including BRC-GS for Packaging Materials.
• Proactively identify and mitigate supply chain risks.
• Produce regular reports covering procurement activity, supplier performance, sustainability metrics, purchase price variance and cost savings.
• Present insights, recommendations and improvement plans to senior management.

Quality

• Operate in line with the company Quality Policy and procedures.
• Ensure all suppliers remain compliant with packaging standards.
• Proactively identify opportunities to enhance and improve quality systems and processes.

Health & Safety

• Comply fully with the company Health & Safety at Work Policy.
• Ensure equipment is used correctly and maintained appropriately.
• Report any safety concerns or infringements promptly.
• Understand and follow correct handling procedures for potentially hazardous products.

Housekeeping

• Adhere to all company hygiene and housekeeping standards.
• Maintain a clean, safe and organised working environment.
• Take responsibility for minimising waste and conserving energy.
• Wear and maintain all issued uniform and PPE to the required standard.

Communication

• Communicate clearly, accurately and professionally with colleagues at all levels.
• Provide timely and relevant updates to the senior leadership team and board as required.

Security

• Comply with all company security procedures, including IT and data security policies.
• Report any unauthorised access, damage or theft immediately.

This is an excellent opportunity for a commercially astute procurement professional to take ownership of a critical function, offering autonomy, influence and the chance to make a tangible impact within a growing and forward-thinking business.