Macfarlane Packaging
Trainee Buyer
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Location: Tilehurst, Reading
Salary: Up to £32,000 (dependent on experience) + bonus
Benefits: Up to 27 days holiday (+ bank holidays & buy/sell scheme), pension, full training including CIPS support, progression opportunities, employee discounts and more
Sector: Packaging Distribution
Start your career in procurement with a market leader
At Macfarlane Packaging, we protect what matters – our people, our customers, our communities, and the environment.
With over 75 years of success, we offer long-term stability combined with a supportive, collaborative environment where people can build meaningful careers. If you’re looking to take your first step into procurement, this is a fantastic opportunity to learn, develop, and progress.
The role
As our Trainee Buyer, you’ll join our local procurement team and gain hands-on experience across all aspects of purchasing and supply chain operations.
You’ll begin by supporting stock control and day-to-day purchasing activity, learning how to manage supplier relationships, control costs, and maintain optimal stock levels. As your experience grows, you’ll take on more responsibility and develop into a fully-fledged Buyer.
We’ll also support your professional development, including the opportunity to study towards a recognised CIPS qualification.
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Key Responsibilities
- Support day-to-day purchasing activity across the site
- Raise and manage purchase orders, ensuring accuracy and timeliness
- Monitor stock levels and help maintain efficient inventory control
- Build relationships with suppliers and support sourcing activities
- Identify opportunities to reduce costs and improve efficiency
- Maintain accurate system records and procurement data
- Develop an understanding of the full supply chain process
- Gain knowledge of our packaging products and solutions
What You’ll Bring
We’re looking for someone with the right attitude and potential, rather than direct procurement experience.
Essential
- Experience in a commercial, administrative, or customer-focused environment
- Strong attention to detail and organisational skills
- Good communication skills and confidence dealing with others
- IT literacy, including Microsoft Office (particularly Excel)
- A genuine interest in developing a career in procurement
Desirable
- Exposure to stock control, purchasing, or supply chain environments
- Analytical mindset with an interest in cost control or data
What You’ll Get
- 25 days holiday (rising to 27 with service) + bank holidays
- Bonus and incentive schemes
- Contributory pension scheme
- Full training and structured career development
- Support towards CIPS professional qualifications
- Employee assistance programme
- Employee discounts and wellbeing benefits
- Volunteering day and long service awards
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Your future with us
This role offers a clear pathway into a Buyer position and beyond. With structured development plans and access to recognised qualifications, you’ll have everything you need to build a long-term career in procurement, including CIPS accredited training along the way.
Next Steps/How To Apply
We are working swiftly to find the best applicants and hope to hold local interviews ASAP. Please click ‘apply’ to submit your up-to-date CV. All applications will be acknowledged. If you haven’t heard from us within two weeks, please assume your application was unsuccessful.
We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds irrespective of your age, gender, disability, race, nationality, ethnicity, gender expression, religion, or sexual orientation. Should you require any specific support or adjustments during the recruitment process, please email our recruitment team directly.
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