Purchase Assistant – Drugstore / Pharmacy

Overview

The Purchase Assistant supports the pharmacy procurement department by sourcing medical and non-medical products, coordinating with suppliers, ensuring timely stock availability, and maintaining accurate purchasing records. This role ensures smooth purchasing operations and compliance with pharmacy regulations.

Key Responsibilities1. Procurement & Sourcing

• Assist in sourcing medicines, OTC items, medical supplies, and wellness products.
• Request and compare supplier quotations (price, availability, delivery terms).
• Prepare purchase orders and follow up for approvals.
• Ensure all purchased items comply with UAE pharmacy regulations and product registration requirements.

2. Inventory Coordination

• Monitor stock levels and assist with replenishment needs.
• Coordinate with warehouse and store teams to track stock movement.
• Identify slow-moving, out-of-stock, and urgent items.
• Assist in maintaining optimal stock levels based on demand patterns.

3. Supplier Coordination

• Maintain communication with approved local distributors and pharmaceutical suppliers.
• Follow up on delivery schedules and resolve delays or discrepancies.
• Assist in evaluating supplier performance (pricing, delivery accuracy, quality).

4. Documentation & Compliance

• Prepare and update purchasing documentation, invoices, and delivery notes.
• Ensure regulatory documents (MOHAP/DOH/DHA approvals if required) are properly filed.
• Maintain accurate records in ERP or pharmacy management systems.

5. Financial & Administrative Support

• Assist in price checks, cost comparisons, and updating price lists.
• Coordinate with accounts for payment follow-ups and invoice verification.
• Track purchase order status and update reports for management.

6. Internal Coordination

• Work closely with pharmacists, storekeepers, and operations team regarding product requirements.
• Support the purchasing manager in daily administrative tasks and reports.

Skills & Qualifications Education & Experience

• Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain, Pharmacy, or related field.
• Experience in pharmacy/drugstore purchasing is an advantage.

Skills

• Strong knowledge of medicines, OTC products, and pharmacy-related items is preferred.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
• Proficient in MS Office (Excel, Word) and ERP systems.
• Good organizational and follow-up skills.
• Attention to detail and accuracy in documentation.

Competencies

• Time management
• Vendor relationship management
• Teamwork
• Analytical thinking
• Problem solving

Job Type: Full-time