Buyer

The Buyer will play a key role in ensuring the efficient supply of materials and components to meet operational and customer requirements. Reporting to the Procurement Manager, the role will involve managing supplier relationships, negotiating commercial agreements, monitoring inventory, and driving improvements in cost, quality and delivery performance.

The successful candidate will work closely with teams across the business to support production continuity, resolve supply issues and contribute to ongoing operational improvements.

Key Responsibilities

• Source, develop and manage a portfolio of suppliers.

• Procure goods and services in line with established purchasing processes and procedures.

• Obtain and evaluate supplier quotations, considering price, quality, lead times and technical requirements.

• Negotiate pricing, delivery schedules, payment terms and supply agreements.

• Identify opportunities to reduce costs, lead times and supply risk while improving quality.

• Maintain accurate supplier and purchasing data, including pricing and lead times.

• Raise and manage purchase orders using an ERP/MRP system.

• Monitor and manage supplier performance, including delivery and quality.

• Work collaboratively with Engineering, Assembly, Planning, Quality and Customer Support teams.

• Identify alternative sources of supply and implement cost-saving initiatives without compromising quality.

• Resolve supplier issues relating to shortages, quality concerns and delivery delays.

• Ensure purchased materials meet engineering specifications and required standards.

• Monitor inventory levels and support stock optimisation to minimise shortages and excess stock.

Skills & Experience

Essential

• Previous purchasing experience within an engineering or manufacturing environment.

• Good understanding of mechanical components, engineering drawings and specifications.

• Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.

Desirable

• CIPS Level 4 qualification or working towards one.

• Experience with supplier audits and supplier performance management.

• Knowledge of continuous improvement principles.

Salary - DOE