About Company
Twinkl is a global educational publisher, creating high-quality, trusted teaching and learning materials for educators around the world. Founded in 2010 in Sheffield, UK, our mission is to help those who teach. We’re a diverse, passionate team committed to making a real difference to the lives of educators, parents, and children by providing an ever-growing library of resources across all subjects and age groups. Our culture champions innovation, collaboration, and a deep commitment to our users. We embrace remote working and strive to create an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive, contributing to a world where education is accessible and inspiring for all. Join our mission to empower educators globally.
Job Description
Are you a meticulously organised individual with a keen eye for detail and a passion for securing the best value? Twinkl is seeking a proactive and dedicated Remote Purchasing Assistant to join our dynamic procurement team. In this fully remote role, you will play a crucial part in ensuring the smooth and efficient acquisition of goods and services necessary to support Twinkl’s operations across the UK. Working from your home office, you will assist with the end-to-end purchasing process, from raising purchase orders and tracking deliveries to maintaining vendor relationships and ensuring compliance with our robust purchasing policies. This is an exciting opportunity for someone with excellent administrative skills, a strong ability to communicate, and a desire to contribute to a company that makes a positive global impact on education. You will be instrumental in supporting our creative and operational teams, ensuring they have the resources needed to continue producing world-class educational content. This role requires a high degree of self-motivation, excellent time management, and the ability to work independently within a supportive remote team structure, whilst always remaining connected and collaborative with your colleagues.
Key Responsibilities
- Process purchase requisitions and convert them into official purchase orders (POs) in a timely and accurate manner.
- Track and monitor orders from placement through to delivery, ensuring goods and services are received as expected and on schedule.
- Communicate effectively and professionally with suppliers regarding order status, delivery schedules, invoice discrepancies, and general enquiries.
- Maintain accurate purchasing records, supplier databases, and product information within our procurement systems.
- Assist in negotiating favourable terms with suppliers and actively identifying cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality.
- Support the Procurement Manager with vendor selection, evaluation, and ongoing performance monitoring.
- Collaborate proactively with internal departments to understand their procurement needs and ensure satisfaction with delivered goods/services.
- Manage returns and resolve any issues or complaints related to purchases efficiently and effectively.
- Ensure all purchasing activities strictly adhere to company policies, procedures, and ethical standards.
- Prepare regular reports on purchasing activities, spending, and supplier performance to aid in strategic decision-making.
Required Skills
- Proven experience (minimum 2 years) in an administrative, purchasing, or supply chain support role.
- Excellent organisational and time management skills with the ability to prioritise tasks effectively in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills, with a professional phone and email manner.
- Proficiency in using Microsoft Office Suite (Excel for data analysis, Word for documentation, Outlook for communication) and experience with procurement software/ERP systems.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a remote team, maintaining high productivity and engagement.
- High level of attention to detail and accuracy, ensuring error-free documentation and processes.
- A proactive approach to problem-solving and a willingness to take initiative to improve processes.
- Understanding of basic procurement principles and practices, including vendor management and order processing.
Preferred Qualifications
- A relevant qualification in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Logistics, or a related field.
- Experience with a specific ERP system (e.g., SAP, Oracle, NetSuite, Dynamics 365).
- Previous experience working in a remote capacity, demonstrating effective self-management and collaboration.
- Knowledge of the educational publishing or e-learning industry and its specific procurement needs.
- Familiarity with contract management and basic vendor negotiation strategies.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
- Generous holiday allowance, including all public holidays.
- Flexible working hours, promoting an excellent work-life balance.
- Access to a wide range of professional development and training opportunities to support your growth.
- Company pension scheme with employer contributions.
- A supportive, inclusive, and collaborative remote work environment.
- Regular virtual social events and team-building activities to foster connection.
- Access to Twinkl resources for personal use, supporting your own learning or that of family/friends.
- Opportunity to work for a company with a strong social mission and global impact on education.
How to Apply
If you are excited by the prospect of contributing to a company that genuinely makes a difference in education and possess the skills and experience we’re looking for, we encourage you to apply! Please click on the application link below to submit your comprehensive CV and a compelling cover letter outlining your suitability for this remote Purchasing Assistant role. Ensure your cover letter highlights your experience with purchasing processes, your ability to thrive in a remote work setting, and why you are passionate about Twinkl’s mission.