Buyer

Role overview

This position focuses on managing a portfolio of electrical lighting suppliers, with responsibility for forecasting demand, keeping stock available, controlling inventory, and monitoring supplier performance as part of a collaborative purchasing function.

The Buyer will oversee a defined supplier base within the electrical lighting product range. The main objective is to maintain strong service levels, keep stockholding efficient, and ensure working capital is used wisely. Success in the role depends on accurate forecasting, timely ordering, and effective coordination with suppliers so that availability targets are met while excess and slow-moving inventory is reduced.

The role sits within a compact Purchasing team of four, where teamwork, accountability, and a constructive attitude are important. The business is looking for someone who can settle in quickly, take full ownership of their portfolio, and add value to team performance from the outset.

Key responsibilities

• Predict demand and raise purchase orders to support agreed service levels while keeping stock investment under control.
• Oversee outstanding purchase orders and supplier delivery plans to support on-time supply and continuity.
• Identify and reduce excess, aging, slow-moving, and obsolete inventory.
• Review supplier performance, including lead times, delivery dependability, and responsiveness, and escalate or correct issues when needed.
• Track stock levels across the Dublin and UK hub warehouses to improve stock coverage and allocation.
• Work with Sales teams on large project orders and provide reliable availability dates and supply options.
• Coordinate daily with the Purchasing team in China to align buying plans and resolve supply constraints.
• Apply day-to-day stock control actions to avoid stock shortages.
• Prepare reports and analysis to help the Purchasing Manager with decisions and performance tracking.

The ideal candidate

This opportunity suits an experienced Buyer or Inventory Planner who is confident managing a supplier portfolio on their own and enjoys working in a fast-moving, commercially focused environment.

Experience and skills required

• 3 to 5 years of proven experience in buying, stock management, or inventory control.
• Strong analytical and numerical ability, with confidence in interpreting data and using it to guide decisions.
• Good commercial judgement and awareness of the financial consequences of stock decisions.
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Excel.
• Experience with ERP platforms, with SAP Business One preferred.
• Well-developed organizational skills and careful attention to detail.
• Ability to juggle several priorities while working with a strong sense of urgency.

Personal attributes

• Positive, energetic, and solution-oriented approach.
• Clear communicator who is comfortable dealing with suppliers and internal teams.
• Self-driven, able to take responsibility and work independently.
• Confident and firm when handling supplier performance and issue resolution.
• Comfortable working as part of a small, collaborative team.
• Focused on outcomes with a practical, can-do attitude.

Desirable experience

• Exposure to working with suppliers based in Asia.
• Understanding of freight and logistics operations.
• Previous negotiation experience.
• Work experience in Ireland or in an international setting.
• SAP Business One proficiency.

What we are looking for

The employer is seeking someone who brings energy, professionalism, and accountability to the position. The right person will be proactive rather than reactive, comfortable working with data, and motivated to improve processes and performance.

Above all, the company wants a positive team player who can integrate quickly, support colleagues, and help build a high-performing purchasing operation.