Senior Buyer - Global Specialist Manufacturer £ Hybrid nr Milton Keynes Permanent
This is a rare chance to join a genuinely exciting, high-growth global business at a pivotal point in its development. Our client is a specialist manufacturer operating in a complex, fast-moving international environment - supplying into some of the world's most demanding industries and growing rapidly as a result.
As Senior Buyer, you will be a key part of a close-knit purchasing team, working directly with the Purchasing Manager and taking real ownership of your supplier base. This is a hands-on, high-pace role - not a strategic or category management position. You will be in the detail every day: managing purchase orders, driving supplier performance, resolving issues and keeping the operation moving.
What You'll Be Doing:
Supplier & Supply Chain Management
Negotiate prices, terms and service level agreements to ensure the operations team can deliver to customers within expected lead times
Day-to-Day Buying & Order Management
Issue purchase orders to suppliers and provide all necessary documentation for custom materials
ERP, Data & Reporting
Review and maintain SAP master data to ensure accuracy at all times
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Work closely with Engineering and Operations teams to arrange timely supply of approved materials
What They're Looking For:
Essential
Minimum three years' experience in a buying or purchasing role
Hands-on experience using an ERP or MRP system (SAP strongly preferred - other systems considered if you can demonstrate ability to adapt quickly)
Broad end-to-end supply chain and operations knowledge
Experience managing international suppliers
Strong interpersonal skills - comfortable communicating across all levels, from the shop floor to senior leadership
Able to work in a fast-paced environment, handle multiple priorities simultaneously and meet tight deadlines
Ability to work with minimal supervision and take ownership of problems through to resolution
Willingness to travel occasionally as required
Desirable
CIPS qualification (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply) - Level 3 minimum
Direct SAP experience (MM module or equivalent)
Exposure to Engineering Change Order (ECO) or Engineering Change Note (ECN) processes
Experience in a regulated or quality-driven manufacturing environment
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel
All applications treated in strict confidence. The client name and full location will be shared with suitable candidates at telephone screening stage.