Packaging Inventory Planner / Buyer

12-Month Maternity Cover - Full Time
Location: Kempston
Salary: Competitive + Excellent Benefits

Are you a proactive and organised supply chain professional with a passion for all things packaging?

My client is seeking a Packaging Inventory Planner/Buyer to join their friendly and fast‑paced operation on a 12‑month maternity contract. This is a fantastic opportunity to play a key role in ensuring production runs smoothly by planning, purchasing and managing a diverse range of packaging components.

Based at their modern Warehousing & Distribution Centre in Kempston, you'll work closely with suppliers, internal stakeholders and the production planning team to keep everything running like clockwork.

What you'll be doing

In this varied and hands-on role, you will:

Planning

• Manage stock levels for a defined range of packaging components to support production schedules.
• Maintain accurate ERP data, including item codes, product structures and new component setups.
• Plan the introduction of new packaging while minimising waste and residual stock.
• Support the resolution of supplier quality or service issues.
• Oversee third‑party consignment processes.

Purchasing

• Raise purchase orders for packaging components using MRP insights and business requirements.
• Liaise with suppliers to ensure quality, service and delivery expectations are met.
• Negotiate pricing and lead times in exceptional circumstances.
• Monitor market trends, risks and opportunities within your category.
• Work with the Packaging Manager to develop and support category strategies.
• Maintain supplier relationship management (SRM) data.

Specifications & Documentation

• Create and maintain packaging specifications within the Company Document Management System.
• Support artwork revisions and ensure correct packaging codes are applied.
• Secure and upload supplier approvals.
• Assist in maintaining the Component Change Log.
• Contribute to supplier performance measurement and rating.

General Responsibilities

• Own relevant Change Controls for your category.
• Support monthly and ad‑hoc reporting.
• Maintain packaging documents within internal systems.
• Participate in NPD handover meetings regarding packaging needs.
• Provide cover for packaging waste reporting, month‑end tasks, consignment processes and redundant stock.
• Work with the Supplier Relationship Manager on packaging‑related projects.

What we're looking for

Ideally, you will bring:

• Experience purchasing packaging components in a regulated manufacturing environment.
• Strong communication skills and confidence working with suppliers.
• Experience using ERP‑based purchasing systems.
• Supplier management experience.
• A detail‑focused, commercially aware and self‑motivated mindset.
• Experience with pharmaceutical packaging (aluminium, glass, closures) would be an advantage.
• Familiarity with change management processes.

What's in it for you?

Alongside a competitive salary, my client offers an impressive benefits package designed to support you both professionally and personally:

• Annual salary review plus annual company bonus
• 25 days holiday, with 4 days allocated for Christmas closure, plus bank holidays
• Matched pension scheme at 5% (rising to 6% after 5 years' service, salary exchange)
• Life Assurance at 4x basic salary
• Free daily lunch, plus complimentary tea, coffee and refreshments
• Free onsite parking

If this feels like the right opportunity for you, please APPLY NOW