Project Buyer | Milton Keynes | £42,000 | Permanent
The Opportunity
An exciting opportunity is available for a proactive and experienced Project Buyer to join the Supply Chain department of a leading heavy industrial engineering organisation in Milton Keynes. While a transport background (e.g., rail, aerospace, automotive) is beneficial, we welcome candidates from other complex manufacturing or service sectors.
Reporting to the Supply Chain Manager, you will be the key operational procurement contact responsible for managing the purchase of all necessary goods and services for specific projects. This role is crucial for ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget by securing best value for the company, managing supply chain risks, and fostering strong supplier relationships. You will be instrumental in executing sourcing strategies, acting as the vital link between project teams, suppliers, and subcontractors, and driving continuous improvement through analysis of project execution.
Key Responsibilities:
Manage operational procurement for defined projects, purchasing commodities and services and managing the day-to-day relationships with production teams and project suppliers.
For purchases outside of established 'frame agreements', lead the RFQ process, including evaluating proposals, negotiating contracts, and selecting suppliers.
Secure cost reductions against departmental targets and ensure all orders comply with project-specific and customer terms and conditions.
Act as the liaison between the project team, suppliers, and other stakeholders, actively managing relationships to optimise project outcomes.
Support and lead 'lessons learnt' sessions post-project, focusing on supply chain performance to understand and address the root cause of any procurement issues or delays.
Support the development of long-term supplier relationships through regular project performance reviews as directed by the Supply Chain Manager.
Assist in identifying and implementing product and process improvements within the supply chain function.
The Candidate:
We are looking for a highly organised, solutions-driven procurement professional with a solid background in project-based manufacturing or service environments.
Essential Criteria:
Formal qualifications in Procurement (CIPS Level 4 is highly preferred).
5+ years of experience in a project-driven manufacturing or service environment.
Proven experience working in a fast-paced environment and managing multiple projects simultaneously.
Excellent understanding of purchasing, contract formulation, terms and conditions, and negotiation techniques.
Familiarity with the principles of root cause analysis and implementing supply chain process improvements.
Strong knowledge of related functions including materials planning, project management, and production planning processes.
Demonstrated ability to drive and improve performance using data insights.
Familiarity with ERP systems (ideally SAP) and proficient in Microsoft packages.
Strong communication, organisational, and planning skills and a self-motivated, proactive approach.
Location: Milton Keynes. Hybrid working is available after passing probation.
Salary: £42,000
About Ford & Stanley Group
Ford & Stanley Talent Services Group are in the business of people and performance. Our mission is to create one million better workdays through facilitating great recruitment, leadership and occupational mental fitness. We support our clients in their most challenging business areas – recruiting, developing and retaining the best talent from shop floor to boardroom.
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Ford & Stanley Talent Services Group Ltd is a Disability Confident employer that is committed to a policy of equal opportunities for all opportunity seekers. We shall adhere to such a policy at all times and will review on an on-going basis all aspects of recruitment to avoid unlawful or undesirable discrimination. We will treat everyone equally irrespective sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, age, disability, colour, race, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief or political beliefs and we place an obligation upon all staff to respect and act in accordance with the policy