Job Title: Purchasing Manager
Department: Purchasing
Reports to: Supply Chain Director / Operations Director
Location: 2 Doxford Drive, South West Industrial Estate, Peterlee, SR8 2RL
Salary: £60,000
Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent
About Us
At Alexander Battery Technologies (ABT), we design and manufacture custom battery packs for some of the world’s most demanding applications — from drones and robotics to off-road vehicles, safety equipment, and power tools. We’re expanding fast across the UK, Europe, and North America, and we’re investing in the next generation of high-voltage systems, functional safety design, and end-to-end battery innovation.
We’re looking for someone to take the lead on our procurement and the support the operational and strategic needs of ABT.
Job Overview
The Purchasing Manager will be responsible for building strong, long-term partnerships with suppliers and customers, driving cost-saving initiatives, ensuring continuity of supply, and supporting product development and innovation in battery manufacturing. A background in electronics, electrical components, or battery systems is highly desirable.
Responsibilities
* Develop and implement purchasing strategies aligned with business goals, focusing on cost optimisation, risk mitigation, and supplier performance.
* Build and maintain strategic relationships with key suppliers and customers, ensuring transparency, communication, and mutual value.
* Work closely with the engineering and quality teams to source components for new product introduction (NPI) and resolve supplier-related issues.
* Lead contract negotiations with suppliers to achieve best value while maintaining high standards of quality and service.
* Provide accurate data and forecasting to the senior management team for use in business planning and budgeting.
* Oversee and optimise the procurement process, including supplier onboarding, performance monitoring, and compliance with internal procedures and regulatory requirements.
* Monitor market trends, pricing, and availability of critical components, proactively mitigating potential supply disruptions.
* Develop and manage the department budget, identify and implement cost-saving opportunities across the supply chain.
* Ensure compliance with company procedures, health and safety legislation, and relevant environmental and regulatory standards.
* Support resolution of customer payment issues by collaborating with finance and commercial teams.
* Prepare and present monthly procurement reports to senior management, including updates on KPIs, savings achieved, and key risks.
* Ensure timely execution of NPI and customer project procurement actions.
* Plan and oversee periodic stocktakes, inventory optimisation and supplier audits.
Requirements - Essential
* Proven experience in a Purchasing Manager or similar senior procurement role, preferably within electronics, batteries, or component manufacturing.
* Strong negotiation skills with a track record of delivering cost savings and value from the supply base.
* Strategic thinker with the ability to build and sustain supplier relationships for long-term partnership.
* Excellent analytical, financial, and forecasting abilities.
* Strong leadership, people management, and communication skills.
* Experience supporting New Product Introductions (NPI) and engineering teams.
* Proficient in procurement systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
* Able to work under pressure, manage multiple projects and meet tight deadlines.
Requirements - Desirable
* CIPS qualification or working towards it.
* Familiarity with ERP systems such as IFS or SAP.
* Knowledge of international trade, tariffs, and customs procedures.
If you are passionate about procurement and have the skills necessary to drive efficiency within our purchasing department, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity as a Purchasing Manager.
NO AGENCIES.