Assistant Procurement Manager

Cpl is partnering with a long-established wholesale distribution business based in Cork to find an Assistant Procurement Manager to join their procurement team. This is a great opportunity for a commercially minded procurement professional to support strategy, range and supplier management across a diverse product portfolio, with strong potential to grow into a more strategic role over time.

The ideal candidate is a self-starter with high energy, strong analytical ability, and the confidence to engage stakeholders across the business.

Key Responsibilities

• Supporting the development and implementation of procurement strategy aligned to company and category goals
• Monitoring market dynamics, competitive landscape and emerging trends to inform decisions and mitigate risk
• Managing product ranges to ensure a competitive, innovative assortment
• Overseeing supply and fulfilment processes, including forecasting, purchase orders and stock transfers
• Optimising inventory levels to minimise stockouts and excess stock
• Leading cost optimisation through negotiation, RFPs/RFQs and bid evaluation
• Tracking performance against sales, cost, margin, service and stock targets
• Building and overseeing supplier relationships to drive availability, innovation and continuous improvement

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

• Strong bachelor's degree in Procurement, Business, Supply Chain, Economics or a related field
• 3-5 years' proven experience with strong commercial acumen
• Strong analytical skills, with the ability to interpret complex data and market trends
• Proven procurement and negotiation experience, with a track record of optimising cost while building supplier relationships
• Strong communication, engagement and presentation skills
• Experience managing projects and multiple priorities across stakeholders
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (particularly Excel) and experience with ERP/purchasing platforms