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    Purchasing Manager

    Job Type:

    Full time

    Posted:

    Location(s):

    Kent

    Job Description:

    Ferns Group are a family run business with over 25 years’ experience as an established Utilities and Reinstatement company, specialising in Telecoms Civils, and tailored reinstatement services.

    Our Mission is “to be the preferred choice in our field by adding value to our business partners without compromise to quality, safety or the environment.”​

    We have an exciting opportunity for a skilled and motivated Purchasing Manager to join our growing business to oversee our procurement processes and ensure the efficient acquisition of materials and services.

    The ideal candidate will possess strong negotiation skills and a deep understanding of supply chain management, as well as experience with systems such as Sicon and Sage This role is crucial in maintaining our operational efficiency and supporting our logistics needs.

    Responsibilities

    • Lead and develop the procurement team, ensuring high performance and efficiency
    • Manage the day-to-day buying activities, ensuring materials, subcontractors, and services are procured on time and within budget.
    • Ensure procurement systems are running smoothly and efficiently, minimising downtime or inefficiencies.
    • Continuously improve purchasing processes, leveraging automation and digital tools where applicable.
    • Work closely with IT and finance teams to ensure seamless integration of procurement software with accounting systems.
    • Foster strong collaboration with internal teams, including project managers, finance, and site teams.
    • Assist in the negotiation of contracts with suppliers to secure advantageous terms and conditions.
    • Maintain strong supplier relationships to secure competitive pricing and quality service.
    • Analyse market trends to identify potential suppliers and evaluate their capabilities.
    • Collaborate with internal departments to forecast demand and ensure timely procurement of materials.
    • Prepare reports on purchasing activities, supplier performance, and cost savings initiatives.
    • Ensure compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements in all purchasing activities.

    Requirements

    • Proven experience as a Purchasing Manager or senior buyer within civil engineering, construction, or reinstatement sectors.
    • Strong knowledge of supply chain management principles and practices.
    • Strong leadership and people management skills, with experience in team development.
    • Proficiency in procurement systems, knowledge of Sicon and/or SAGE is highly desirable.
    • Excellent negotiation skills with a track record of successful contract management.
    • Deep understanding of buying policies, compliance, and procurement best practices.
    • Strong analytical skills to assess supplier performance and market conditions.
    • Ability to work collaboratively across various departments within the organisation.
    • Exceptional organisational skills with attention to detail in managing multiple tasks simultaneously.
    • CIPS qualification (or working towards) is desirable.

    Ferns Group are dedicated to diversity in the workplace and committed to treating all our employees and job applicants equally. We embrace equal opportunities, including working with the prison service, and are opposed to discrimination on any grounds.

    All applicants must have rights to work in the UK and be willing to undertake the relevant pre-employment screening checks should your application be successful.