Operations and Commercial Assistant

Job Description

Reed Business Support are recruiting on behalf of a Distributor specialising within the Chemical space. Due to continued success are client are looking to add an Operations/Commercial Assistant to their team on a permanent basis.Our client is looking for a talented, self-motivated, and enthusiastic commercial assistant to strengthen the commercial team and help with purchasing, logistics and sales.The role will involve:• Order processing and follow-ups (POs, despatch notes, proformas, invoices, COAs)• Supply and demand forecasting based on market conditions, macroeconomic environment and customer requirements• Stock management and planning• Operation and oversight of CRM and ERP software• Liaising with warehouse for despatching orders and communicating updates and/ or issues with customers• Clear and effective communication by phone, email and other means with clients, suppliers and internal colleagues to expedite planning, ordering, delivery and accounting requirements of clients and suppliers• Recording of sales information, documents, and customer contact information• Ensuring payments are received from customers on time and carrying out credit checks when required• Arranging samples for customers and monitoring stock levels at 3rd party sample company• General administration duties, including marketing, events organisation, scheduling and maintaining office welfare• Domestic and international travel may be required on occasions to attend trade shows and assist on customer visits if necessaryEssential requirements for the role:• Previous purchasing, logistics and customer service experience is essential• Road, Sea & Air Freight experience (Desirable)• Enthusiastic, open-minded and very willing to learn• Excellent attention to detail with strong time management skills• Organised and self-motivated, willing to take the initiative and be proactive• Excellent verbal and written communication skills and high interpersonal competence and negotiation abilities• Committed to going above and beyond expectations• Proficient with software such as CRMs, ERPs, XERO etc.• Tech savvy – highly proficient in working with technology (laptops, phones, printers etc.) and Microsoft software (Windows, Excel, PowerPoint etc.)• Able to work independently under remote management (e.g., WFH)• Highly proficient in EnglishAdvantageous/desirable qualities:• Experience with dangerous goods transport and storage• Interest or previous experience in the chemicals industry is desirable but not essential• Experience in logistics highly desirable – import/export procedures, incoterms, interacting with global freight forwarders and couriers• Experience in warehousing and stock management/invoicing• Experience working for an agent or distributorOther informationSalary: £25-35k (negotiable, dependent on experience), with performance-based bonus, health insurance, pension contributions, car allowance etc.Hours: Monday – Friday (09:00-17:00)Location: Flexible (min. 3/4 days in-person per week, Leeds office)