About the Role
We are looking for a commercially astute and proactive Strategic Buyer to lead sourcing and procurement activities for assigned direct material commodities. This role plays a critical part in supplier selection, cost management, and supporting new product development across our global operations.
This is a full-time position, based on working Monday – to Friday, 39 hours a week.
Key Responsibilities
* Manage assigned direct material commodity portfolio
* Negotiate and agree material pricing and lead times
* Select suppliers by part and maintain strong supplier relationships
* Identify and onboard new suppliers as needed
* Mitigate supply risks through dual sourcing and strategic planning
* Support New Product Development initiatives
* Monitor and report on key performance indicators including cost, delivery, and inventory
Performance Indicators
* Direct material costs vs. budget and previous year
* On-time delivery of purchase orders
* Inventory levels aligned with agreed targets
Stakeholder Engagement
* Internal: Production Planning, Engineering, Quality
* External: Suppliers and potential suppliers
* Global: Collaborate with HQ Global Buyers and other Rittal sites worldwide
Education & Qualifications
* Ideally degree qualified
* CIPS Level 4 (or willingness to study towards it)
Experience & Knowledge
* Must have experience in a buyer or procurement role
* Familiarity with MRP systems, ideally SAP
* Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other Office applications
Skills & Competencies
* Excellent negotiation and communication skills
* Analytical and detail-oriented
* Ability to manage multiple priorities and build effective relationships
Why Join Us?
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a global organisation where your strategic input will directly influence business performance. We offer a supportive environment, professional development opportunities, and the chance to work with international teams.
Rittal-CSM is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.
Your unique perspective and talents will help us continue to thrive and innovate in our industry.
Please Note: As part of our commitment to safeguarding and ensuring the safety of our employees, all prospective employees will be required to undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and a sanction list check. These checks are essential to ensure that all candidates meet our stringent safety and compliance standards.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: Up to £50,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Company pension
* Cycle to work scheme
* Flexitime
* Free parking
* Health & wellbeing programme
* Life insurance
* On-site parking
* Referral programme
* Store discount
Work Location: In person