Procurement Assistant



Overview

We are seeking a proactive and organised Procurement Assistant to support the delivery of an efficient and compliant procurement service across the Trust for a 7-month contract. Working within the Procurement and Supplies team, you will provide first-line support to internal customers, assist with purchasing activities, maintain procurement systems, and ensure the timely supply of goods and services that support both clinical and non-clinical operations.

Key Responsibilities



Procurement & Customer Support

• Provide first-line procurement support and advice staff.
• Assist customers with purchasing queries, ordering issues, and procurement procedures.
• Communicate with suppliers and stakeholders via telephone, email, and online systems.
• Escalate complex procurement issues to senior Procurement Officers.
• Encourage the use of approved contracts and compliant procurement routes.
• Support delivery of staff training on e-procurement and online ordering systems.

Purchasing & Supplier Management

• Process purchase requisitions and orders accurately and efficiently.
• Ensure correct suppliers, pricing, product descriptions, and supporting documentation are included on purchase requests.
• Liaise with suppliers regarding deliveries, returns, product queries, and discrepancies.
• Arrange emergency deliveries where required.
• Support sourcing activities by researching products, services, and suppliers.
• Coordinate product samples and equipment trials when required.

E-Procurement Systems & Administration

• Provide helpdesk support for e-procurement users.
• Maintain purchasing catalogues and supplier information within procurement systems.
• Monitor requisitions, emails, and workflow queues to ensure timely processing.
• Assist with system updates, user guides, and procedural documentation.
• Log and manage procurement-related system incidents through support services.

Data Analysis & Financial Support

• Assist in analysing procurement spend and purchasing trends.
• Support the development of catalogue systems and contract monitoring processes.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings and value-for-money improvements.
• Use spend comparison tools to support procurement initiatives.
• Investigate invoice and finance queries as required.
• Process and check orders against approved contracts.

Stores & Inventory Management

• Undertake general stores duties including:
  • Ordering and receipting stock
  • Maintaining inventory records
  • Issuing goods
  • Assisting with stock checks and stock takes
• Support the management of PPE stock levels and reorder processes.
• Assist with inventory system maintenance and monitoring.

Compliance & Governance

• Maintain accurate procurement records and documentation.
• Carry out regular quality checks and audits on own work.
• Ensure all purchasing activities comply with Trust policies and procurement regulations.
• Maintain confidentiality and comply with GDPR, Data Protection legislation, and information governance standards.
• Contribute to business continuity arrangements and procurement resilience planning.

Skills & Experience

• Excellent organisational and administrative skills.
• Strong communication and customer service abilities.
• Experience using computerised purchasing, inventory, or finance systems.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and work to deadlines.
• Good attention to detail and data accuracy.
• Experience liaising with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

What We''re Looking For

• A proactive and customer-focused approach.
• Strong problem-solving and negotiation skills.
• Commitment to delivering value for money and excellent service.
• Ability to build positive working relationships with colleagues and suppliers.
• Understanding of values and commitment to supporting patient care through effective procurement practices.

Adecco acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and an employment business for the supply of temporary workers. The Adecco Group UK & Ireland is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

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