Staff Direct - Purchase Order Admin Assistant Jobs in Leeds with SAP or Oracle Experience Required for Procurement and Supply Chain Departments

Finding the right administrative role in procurement and supply chain can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. But if you've got SAP or Oracle experience under your belt and you're based in or around Leeds, you're in luck. Staff Direct has been connecting talented Purchase Order Admin Assistants with top-tier companies in the region, and the demand for skilled professionals like you has never been higher.

Let's dive into everything you need to know about these opportunities, what makes them special, and how you can land your next role through Staff Direct.

What Is a Purchase Order Admin Assistant?

A Purchase Order Admin Assistant plays a crucial role in keeping procurement and supply chain operations running smoothly. You're essentially the glue that holds purchasing processes together, ensuring that orders are processed accurately, suppliers are managed effectively, and everything flows seamlessly from requisition to delivery.

Your typical day might involve creating and processing purchase orders, maintaining supplier databases, tracking deliveries, resolving discrepancies, and liaising between various departments. It's a role that requires attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to juggle multiple priorities without breaking a sweat.

What sets these positions apart is the technical requirement—companies aren't just looking for administrative skills anymore. They need professionals who can navigate complex enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems like SAP or Oracle. These platforms are the backbone of modern procurement operations, and knowing your way around them makes you an invaluable asset.

Why Leeds Is a Hotspot for Procurement Roles

Leeds has evolved into one of the UK's most vibrant business hubs, particularly for back-office operations, finance, and supply chain management. The city offers a perfect storm of factors that make it attractive for both employers and job seekers.

First off, Leeds boasts a lower cost of living compared to London, which means your salary goes further. You can enjoy a better quality of life without sacrificing career opportunities. The city has attracted major corporations, financial institutions, retail giants, and manufacturing companies—all of which need robust procurement departments.

The transport links are excellent too. Whether you're commuting from nearby towns or considering relocation, Leeds is well-connected by rail and road. Many companies have also embraced hybrid working models, giving you flexibility that wasn't imaginable just a few years ago.

Additionally, Leeds has invested heavily in its business infrastructure. Modern office spaces, networking events, and professional development opportunities are abundant. The city's business community is thriving, and procurement professionals are right at the heart of that growth.

The Critical Importance of SAP and Oracle Experience

Here's the thing—procurement has gone digital in a big way. Gone are the days of paper-based purchase orders and manual tracking systems. Today's procurement departments rely on sophisticated ERP systems, and SAP and Oracle are the industry leaders.

SAP in Procurement

SAP's Materials Management (MM) module is used by thousands of organizations worldwide. If you've worked with SAP, you understand how to create purchase requisitions, convert them to purchase orders, manage vendor master data, and track goods receipts. You're familiar with the three-way match process (purchase order, goods receipt, and invoice) and can troubleshoot common issues.

Companies value SAP experience because it means you can hit the ground running. Training new employees on these systems takes time and resources. When you already know the platform, you're immediately productive.

Oracle Procurement Cloud and E-Business Suite

Oracle has its own loyal following, particularly with Oracle Procurement Cloud and the E-Business Suite. These systems offer powerful procurement capabilities, including supplier management, sourcing, purchasing, and procurement contracts.

If you've used Oracle's Purchasing module, you know how to navigate requisition approval workflows, manage blanket purchase agreements, and generate procurement reports. This experience is gold to employers who've invested heavily in Oracle infrastructure.

The Competitive Advantage

Having SAP or Oracle on your CV doesn't just make you employable—it makes you competitive. These skills often translate to higher starting salaries and faster career progression. Employers recognize that professionals with ERP experience bring efficiency, accuracy, and strategic value to their operations.

What Staff Direct Brings to the Table

Staff Direct has built a reputation as one of the UK's leading recruitment agencies, particularly in administrative, office support, and industrial sectors. When it comes to Purchase Order Admin Assistant roles in Leeds, they've got the connections and expertise to match you with opportunities that fit your skills and career goals.

Specialized Recruitment Expertise

Unlike generalist job boards, Staff Direct specializes in placing administrative and support staff. Their recruiters understand the nuances of procurement roles and what companies are really looking for. They speak your language and can effectively represent your skills to potential employers.

Established Relationships with Top Employers

Staff Direct has cultivated relationships with major employers across Leeds and the broader Yorkshire region. These aren't just transactional partnerships—they're built on trust and a track record of placing quality candidates. This means you get access to opportunities that might not be advertised elsewhere.

Temporary, Temp-to-Perm, and Permanent Placements

Whether you're looking for flexibility or stability, Staff Direct can help. They offer temporary assignments that can lead to permanent positions, as well as direct permanent placements. Temporary roles are particularly valuable in procurement—they let you prove your worth while getting a feel for the company culture.

Support Throughout the Process

From CV optimization to interview preparation, Staff Direct provides support every step of the way. They'll help you highlight your SAP or Oracle experience effectively and prepare for technical questions. Their goal is to set you up for success, not just fill a position.

Key Responsibilities in Purchase Order Admin Roles

Understanding what you'll actually be doing day-to-day helps you assess whether these roles are right for you. While specific responsibilities vary by company, here are the core duties you can expect:

Processing Purchase Orders

This is the bread and butter of the role. You'll receive purchase requisitions from various departments, verify that they have proper approval, and create purchase orders in SAP or Oracle. Accuracy is critical—mistakes can lead to delayed deliveries, financial discrepancies, and frustrated stakeholders.

Supplier Communication and Management

You'll be the point of contact for suppliers, confirming order details, tracking delivery schedules, and resolving issues. Strong communication skills are essential here. You need to be professional, clear, and proactive in managing these relationships.

Data Entry and Maintenance

Maintaining clean, accurate data in the ERP system is crucial. This includes updating supplier information, managing product codes, and ensuring that pricing information is current. It might sound mundane, but data integrity underpins everything else the procurement team does.

Invoice Processing and Three-Way Matching

Many Purchase Order Admin Assistants are involved in invoice processing. You'll match invoices against purchase orders and goods receipts, identifying discrepancies and working with suppliers and finance teams to resolve them. This process prevents payment errors and potential fraud.

Reporting and Analysis

You might be asked to generate reports on spending patterns, supplier performance, or order fulfillment rates. While you won't necessarily be making strategic decisions based on this data, you'll be providing the information that others use to make those decisions.

Resolving Discrepancies and Queries

When things go wrong—and they sometimes do—you're the problem solver. Whether it's a wrong quantity delivered, a pricing error, or a delayed shipment, you'll investigate, communicate with the relevant parties, and find solutions.

Supporting the Wider Procurement Team

You're part of a team, and that means supporting procurement officers, buyers, and managers with various administrative tasks. This might include organizing meetings, maintaining filing systems, or assisting with procurement projects.

Essential Skills and Qualifications

So, what exactly do employers look for when hiring Purchase Order Admin Assistants with ERP experience?

Technical Skills

SAP or Oracle proficiency is obviously at the top of the list. You should be comfortable navigating the relevant modules, executing standard transactions, and understanding the logic behind the system workflows.

Microsoft Excel skills are nearly as important. You'll be working with data regularly, and employers expect you to handle pivot tables, VLOOKUP functions, and basic data analysis.

General IT literacy matters too. You'll likely use email, document management systems, and possibly other specialized software depending on the organization.

Soft Skills

Attention to detail cannot be overstated. One wrong digit in a purchase order can cost thousands of pounds and damage supplier relationships.

Communication skills—both written and verbal—are essential. You're the bridge between departments, suppliers, and stakeholders. You need to convey information clearly and professionally.

Organizational abilities help you manage multiple purchase orders, deadlines, and priorities without dropping the ball.

Problem-solving skills come into play when you're dealing with discrepancies, delays, or system issues. Employers value people who can think on their feet and find practical solutions.

Teamwork is crucial since you'll be collaborating with procurement colleagues, finance teams, warehouse staff, and various business units.

Qualifications

While some roles might require specific qualifications like a diploma in business administration or supply chain management, many employers prioritize experience over formal education. If you've got proven SAP or Oracle experience and a track record in procurement administration, that often speaks louder than certificates.

That said, relevant qualifications from CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply) can give you an edge and demonstrate your commitment to the profession.

Salary Expectations for Purchase Order Admin Assistants in Leeds

Let's talk money—because that's often the first question on everyone's mind.

Purchase Order Admin Assistant salaries in Leeds typically range from £22,000 to £28,000 for permanent positions, depending on your experience level and the specific employer. Entry-level roles might start around the £20,000 to £23,000 mark, while professionals with several years of experience and advanced SAP or Oracle skills can command £26,000 to £30,000 or more.

Temporary assignments through Staff Direct usually offer competitive hourly rates, often between £13 and £14 per hour, which can translate to similar annual earnings when working full-time.

What makes these figures particularly attractive is Leeds' cost of living. Your salary stretches further here than in London or the South East, meaning you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle while building your career.

Many companies also offer benefits packages that include pension contributions, health insurance, professional development opportunities, and flexible working arrangements. When evaluating offers, consider the total compensation package, not just the base salary.

Career Progression Opportunities

Starting as a Purchase Order Admin Assistant doesn't mean you're stuck there forever. In fact, it's an excellent entry point into the procurement and supply chain field, with clear pathways for advancement.

Senior Purchase Order Administrator

With a couple of years of experience, you can move into a senior administrative role with more responsibility, higher pay, and possibly some supervisory duties over junior administrators.

Procurement Officer or Buyer

Many Purchase Order Admins transition into buying or procurement officer roles, where you'll be making purchasing decisions, negotiating with suppliers, and managing categories of spend. Your administrative background gives you a solid foundation for understanding the end-to-end process.

Supply Chain Coordinator

Your experience with systems and processes positions you well for supply chain coordination roles, where you'll manage logistics, inventory, and supplier relationships at a more strategic level.

ERP Systems Specialist

If you develop deep expertise in SAP or Oracle, you could move into a systems role, supporting implementations, training users, or working as a business analyst. These positions typically command higher salaries and offer interesting technical challenges.

Procurement Manager

With further experience and possibly additional qualifications, you could eventually move into procurement management, overseeing teams and driving strategic initiatives.

The key is to continuously develop your skills, seek out additional responsibilities, and demonstrate your value. Employers appreciate people who show initiative and a willingness to grow.

How to Apply Through Staff Direct

Ready to take the next step? Applying through Staff Direct is straightforward, but a strategic approach increases your chances of success.

Update Your CV

Before you reach out, make sure your CV is up to date and specifically highlights your SAP or Oracle experience. Include details about the modules you've used, the types of transactions you've processed, and any achievements or improvements you've contributed to.

Quantify your experience where possible. For example, "Processed an average of 150 purchase orders per month with 99.5% accuracy" is much more compelling than "Responsible for processing purchase orders."

Register with Staff Direct

Visit the Staff Direct website and complete their registration process. You'll provide your personal details, employment history, skills, and availability. Be thorough—this information helps their recruiters match you with suitable opportunities.

Prepare for the Initial Conversation

A Staff Direct recruiter will typically reach out for an initial phone conversation. Be prepared to discuss your experience, career goals, and what you're looking for in your next role. This isn't a formal interview, but it's your chance to make a good impression.

Be Honest About Your Experience Level

If you've used SAP but not Oracle, or vice versa, be upfront about it. The systems have similarities, and transferable skills are valuable. Recruiters can work with honest information—what they can't work with is discovering mid-process that you've overstated your abilities.

Stay Responsive

When opportunities arise, Staff Direct will contact you quickly. Employers in procurement often need to fill positions fast. Being responsive to emails and calls demonstrates professionalism and helps you capitalize on opportunities before they're gone.

Prepare for Interviews

If Staff Direct puts you forward for a role, they'll brief you on the company, the position, and what to expect in the interview. Use this information to prepare thoughtful questions and examples that demonstrate your suitability.

The Leeds Procurement Job Market in 2026

The procurement landscape in Leeds remains robust as we move through 2026. Several trends are shaping the job market and creating opportunities for skilled administrators.

Digital Transformation Continues

Companies are still investing in digital procurement solutions, which means demand for people who can work with SAP, Oracle, and other ERP systems remains strong. Organizations that haven't yet upgraded their systems are doing so, while those with established platforms need skilled users to maximize their investment.

Supply Chain Resilience

After years of disruption from various global events, companies are focused on building resilient supply chains. This means more investment in procurement functions and a greater need for skilled administrators who can help manage complex supplier networks.

Hybrid Working Models

The shift to hybrid working has stuck around, and many Leeds-based companies offer flexible arrangements. This makes these roles accessible to people across Yorkshire and even those willing to commute from further afield for a few days a week.

Skills Shortages

There's a recognized skills shortage in procurement and supply chain, particularly for people with technical system experience. This works in your favor—employers are keen to attract and retain talent, often offering competitive packages and development opportunities.

Tips for Success in Your Purchase Order Admin Role

Once you've landed the position, here's how to excel and build a strong foundation for your career:

Master the Systems

Invest time in truly understanding SAP or Oracle beyond just the basic transactions you need for your daily work. Explore related modules, understand the connections between different processes, and consider pursuing formal certification if your employer supports it.

Build Strong Relationships

Your effectiveness depends heavily on your relationships with suppliers, colleagues in other departments, and your procurement team. Be reliable, communicative, and collaborative. People remember those who make their jobs easier.

Seek Feedback and Improvement

Regularly ask for feedback on your performance and look for ways to improve processes. If you notice inefficiencies, suggest improvements. Employers value people who think beyond just completing tasks.

Stay Organized

Develop systems for managing your workload, tracking orders, and following up on outstanding issues. Good organizational habits prevent mistakes and help you handle busy periods without becoming overwhelmed.

Keep Learning

The procurement field is constantly evolving. Stay current with industry trends, new technologies, and best practices. Professional organizations like CIPS offer resources, training, and networking opportunities.

The Bigger Picture: Why Procurement Administration Matters

It's easy to view administrative roles as just "back office" work, but Purchase Order Administrators play a critical role in organizational success.

Every purchase order you process contributes to the company's ability to deliver products or services to its customers. Accurate, timely procurement prevents production delays, stockouts, and customer dissatisfaction.

Your work with suppliers helps build partnerships that can lead to better pricing, improved quality, and innovation. The data you maintain informs strategic decisions about spending, sourcing, and risk management.

In essence, you're not just pushing paper (or digital transactions)—you're enabling the entire organization to function effectively. That's something to take pride in.

Making Your Move

The Leeds job market for Purchase Order Admin Assistants with SAP or Oracle experience is thriving, and Staff Direct is your gateway to accessing these opportunities. Whether you're early in your career or looking to make a move from another role, the combination of a strong recruitment partner and in-demand technical skills puts you in a powerful position.

Don't wait for the perfect moment—it rarely comes. If you've got the experience and the drive, now is the time to explore what's available. Reach out to Staff Direct, polish up that CV, and take the first step toward a rewarding career in procurement and supply chain.

The roles are there, the opportunities are real, and companies are actively seeking professionals just like you. Leeds offers an excellent quality of life, career growth potential, and a vibrant business community. Your next career move could be exactly what you've been looking for.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do I need experience with both SAP and Oracle, or is one sufficient?

You typically only need experience with one of these systems, not both. Most companies use either SAP or Oracle, so proficiency in whichever system they use is what matters. That said, if you have experience with both, it makes you even more marketable across different opportunities. The skills are somewhat transferable—once you understand one ERP system deeply, learning another is easier. When you register with Staff Direct, let them know which system(s) you've used, and they'll match you with appropriate roles.

2. Are these roles suitable for someone new to procurement but with SAP/Oracle experience from another field?

Absolutely! Many successful Purchase Order Admin Assistants come from accounts payable, inventory management, or other administrative roles where they used SAP or Oracle. The system knowledge is often the hardest part to acquire, so if you've already got that, you can learn the procurement-specific processes relatively quickly. Be honest in your application about your experience level, and emphasize your transferable skills like attention to detail, communication, and data management. Many employers are willing to provide procurement training for candidates with strong system skills.

3. What's the typical working arrangement for these roles—office-based, remote, or hybrid?

As of 2026, most Leeds-based procurement roles offer hybrid arrangements, typically requiring 2-3 days per week in the office with the rest remote. Purely remote positions are less common in administrative roles since there's often a need for collaboration with on-site teams. However, arrangements vary by employer, and some organizations are more flexible than others. When Staff Direct presents opportunities, they'll clarify the working arrangement so you can assess whether it fits your circumstances.

4. How long does it typically take to secure a role through Staff Direct?

The timeline varies depending on several factors, including your experience level, availability, and the current demand for your skills. Some candidates secure temporary assignments within days of registration, while permanent placements typically take 2-6 weeks from initial application to job offer. The key is staying responsive when Staff Direct contacts you and being flexible about interview timing. Purchase Order Admin roles with SAP or Oracle requirements tend to fill quickly, so prompt engagement with the recruitment process gives you the best chance of success.

5. Can temporary assignments through Staff Direct lead to permanent positions?

Yes, temp-to-perm is a common pathway, and many organizations prefer it. Temporary assignments give both you and the employer a chance to assess fit before making a permanent commitment. You get to experience the company culture, team dynamics, and the actual day-to-day work, while the employer sees your skills in action. If both parties are happy, temporary roles often convert to permanent positions. Even if one particular assignment doesn't lead to permanency, the experience and connections you build improve your prospects for future opportunities. Staff Direct maintains relationships with candidates throughout their careers, helping you find the right permanent fit when the time comes.