Procurement Assistant
Location: Sonas Support Office, Cloghanboy, Athlone, Co Westmeath
Reports to: Head of Procurement
Job Type: Permanent/Fulltime
About the Role:
We are seeking a highly organised and proactive Procurement Assistant to join our team and support the Head of Procurement in delivering efficient procurement operations across all Nursing Homes in our group. This role is ideal for someone with strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a keen interest in developing their commercial awareness and progressing a career in procurement.
Key Responsibilities:
Procurement Support
Assist in sourcing and procuring food and non-food items, including cleaning supplies, stationery, medical supplies, and equipment.
Maintain accurate records of purchases, contracts, and supplier correspondence.
Support tendering processes by collecting quotations, comparing pricing, and analysing supplier data.
Assist with spend analysis to identify trends, cost-saving opportunities, and operational efficiencies.
Supplier Liaison
Communicate with suppliers regarding orders, deliveries, and product queries.
Support supplier performance reviews to ensure quality and value for money.
Help maintain an up-to-date approved supplier list.
Invoice and Contract Administration
Assist with reviewing pre-approved invoices before payment submission.
Support the management of service contracts and fixed-term pricing agreements.
Track contract renewals and supplier pricing accurately.
General Administration & Reporting
Provide general administrative support to the Procurement Department.
Prepare reports, summaries, and trackers as required.
Use Excel and procurement systems to monitor purchasing activity, supplier performance, and costs.
Support the implementation and maintenance of procurement policies and procedures.
Essential Skills & Experience:
Strong numerical, analytical, and problem-solving ability.
Advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including Pivot Tables, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, and data analysis.
High IT literacy and confidence with systems, spreadsheets, and digital tools.
Proficient in Microsoft Word and Outlook.
Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.
Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Desirable:
Previous experience in an administrative, finance, operations, or office-based role.
Suitable for junior or early-career candidates looking for long-term development in procurement or operations.
Key Competencies:
Teamwork and collaboration
Initiative, curiosity, and problem-solving
Accuracy and accountability
Commercial awareness and data-driven decision-making
Customer service orientation (internal and external)
Confidentiality and integrity
Why Join Us?
This is a fantastic opportunity to grow your career in procurement within a supportive and dynamic environment. You’ll gain exposure to multiple aspects of procurement and supplier management while contributing to the efficiency and effectiveness of our operations across the group.
If this is the role for you, apply now!
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