Purchasing Assistant

Working Context
We are a fast-growing company that develops, sources and markets innovative and collaborative educational resources and equipment for schools and nurseries. With a large and diverse supplier base across Europe, the Purchasing team plays a critical role in ensuring product availability, cost efficiency, quality standards and on-time delivery.
The Purchasing Assistant will support the Purchasing and Product Development teams in day-to-day buying, supplier coordination and administrative activities, while gaining exposure to sourcing, negotiation and new product development.
This role offers an excellent opportunity to develop a career in purchasing within a supportive and fast-paced environment.
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Job Purpose
The Purchasing Assistant supports the effective operation of the Purchasing function liaising with suppliers, data management, supplier chargebacks, quality monitoring, monitoring stock availability, and assisting with sourcing and product development activities. The role contributes to achieving cost, availability and delivery KPIs while ensuring accurate data, strong supplier relationships and smooth internal communication.
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Key Responsibilities
Supplier Coordination & Support
Support Buyers and Planners in day-to-day tasks
Build and maintain positive working relationships with suppliers
Support negotiation of prices, lead times and minimum order quantities
Assist in re-sourcing unavailable or low-margin products
Find new suppliers
Liaise with suppliers across Europe, including managing shipments
Lead conversations with suppliers regarding quality issues
Product Development Support
Assist with new product development requests and sample ordering
Track sample progress and support sign-off processes
Ensure products meet agreed requirements
Support information flow between Purchasing, Product Development, Quality, Designers and Warehouse
Reporting & KPIs
Assist in maintaining purchasing data, reports and trackers
Support delivery of KPIs related to stock availability, delivery performance and savings
Provide accurate and timely updates to the wider team
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Work closely with Product Development, Quality, Warehousing, Finance and Marketing
Communicate clearly and proactively to resolve issues quickly
Act as a reliable team player within a busy purchasing environment
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What We Are Looking For
Experience & Education
1–2 years experience in a purchasing, buying
Educated to a good general standard or equivalent professional experience
Experience working with high volumes of products or suppliers is an advantage
Skills & Competencies
Strong organisational and administrative skills
Good problem-solving ability
Excellent attention to detail and accuracy
Confident user of MS Excel and purchasing systems
Ability to work to deadlines in a fast-paced environment
Strong verbal and written communication skills
Ability to work independently while remaining a team player
Personal Attributes
Proactive, flexible and results-driven
Positive attitude with a willingness to learn and develop
Able to handle pressure and changing priorities
Professional and confident when dealing with suppliers
Additional Requirements
Language skills (Lithuanian, English)
Willingness to travel
Car and driving licences
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What We Offer
Opportunity to develop a long-term career in purchasing and sourcing
Exposure to supplier management and product development
Supportive and collaborative team environment