Reporting directly to a Purchase / Category Manager or Senior Buyer, the role is primarily responsible for the commercial management of a portfolio of parts and / or services that are required within a particular manufacturing location.
Client Details
The employer is a recognised organisation within the industrial/manufacturing sector, known for its strong presence and commitment to delivering high-quality products. Operating as a global company, they focus on innovation and efficiency to maintain their market position.
Description
Strategic Development & Execution
Identify and quantify cost-saving opportunities across categories
Monitor tech and market trends to drive cost improvements
Collaborate with stakeholders to align sourcing strategies with business needs
Develop and implement sourcing plans covering:
Early supplier engagement
Cost-saving initiatives
Tendering and contracting
Capacity management
Supplier performance targets
Track and adapt strategies to evolving business conditions
Establish and manage supplier performance metrics
Implement supply contracts and service level agreements
🚚 Supplier Performance & Delivery
Build strong relationships with key suppliers to meet performance goals
Communicate supply base plans for manufacturing and volume changes
Support programme launches with timely, cost-effective supply solutions
Respond to risk alerts and ensure supplier business continuity plans
🤝 Teamwork & Self Development
Promote effective communication across the supply chain
Address supplier performance issues within category
Align supply base with business performance expectations
Support category managers and pursue personal development
Ensure compliance with purchasing policies and procedures
🧭 Supply Base Management & Coordination (Lead Buyer Role)
Lead supplier performance reviews and annual negotiations
Publish technology roadmaps and create budgets
Agree on payment terms and long-term agreements (LTAs)
Oversee business continuity and supplier survey feedback
Define communication strategies and confirm supplier capacity
Support warranty recovery and manage end-of-life planning
Mitigate supplier admin issues and lead Supplier Relationship Management (SRM)
Conduct supplier positioning analysis
Profile
A successful Buyer should have:
🧠 Skills
Strong communicator and team collaborator
Skilled in influencing and conflict resolution
Results-driven with solid negotiation ability
📚 Knowledge
Global category and supplier management
Cost, pricing, and contract management
Performance, change, and financial oversight
🛠️ Experience & Qualifications
Purchasing in engineering/production environments
Leading multi-disciplinary and virtual teams
Building global relationships in matrix organisations
Understanding of engineering and programme management
Graduate calibre; ideally CIPS qualified
Willingness to travel
Job Offer
A competitive salary depending on experience.
A permanent role within a respected company in Staffordshire.
Opportunities to develop your career within the industrial/manufacturing sector.
A supportive and professional work environment.
Potential access to additional benefits (details to be discussed during the interview process).This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated Buyer to join a Procurement team and make a meaningful impact. Apply now to take the next step in your career