Acron Aviation is an agile commercial aviation partner with a long heritage of providing established, industry-certified solutions, as well as future-focused, data-driven innovations. With customers across the globe our employees are committed to the company mission of innovating to create safer skies. For more information visit acronaviation.com Acron Aviation’s integrated and global presence means we are uniquely positioned to deliver cutting-edge solutions to individuals and businesses in the aviation market. We provide technology and systems to enable quality pilot training. From distance learning systems applications and maintenance solutions to training devices and Full Flight Simulators (“FFS”), our technology covers the complete training spectrum. Job Location – Crawley – West Sussex – UK Overview We are looking for an experienced Purchasing Manager to oversee the day-to-day purchasing activities, ensuring timely and cost-effective procurement of goods and services. This role is crucial for optimising supplier relationships, streamlining procurement processes, and maintaining efficient flow of materials to support business operations. In essence, a Purchasing Manager plays a vital role in ensuring that an organisation has the right resources, at the right price, and at the right time, all while managing risks and maximising efficiency. Benefits What we offer as part of our benefits package: 25 days holiday per year (plus bank holidays), increasing with long service and with the opportunity to buy/sell up to 5 days Private medical insurance with optional family cover Pension scheme of up to 7% employer contribution Life Assurance 4x salary (flexible up to 10x) Group income protection Flexible opt-in extras such as a health care cash plan, dental insurance, gym membership, critical illness cover and cycle to work scheme Employee assistance program providing mental health and wellbeing support Subsidised staff restaurant Staff car park incl. electric vehicle charging stations What to expect from Acron? We live by our values; Customer First, Move Fast, Own It and Speak Candidly and we are looking for talented people who can help us embody Our Vision to Innovate to create safer skies, and Our Mission to be the unconventional top tier, partner of choice for our customers. Key Responsibilities Managing a Purchasing Team - Supervising and directing a team of buyers and supporting in their day-to-day needs, hosting weekly meetings and attending monthly department reviews. Reporting and Analysis - Tracking key metrics (Internally and Supplier Metrics), planning team labour, conducting Supplier spend analysis, and preparing reports for management. Resourcing Management – Monitor and report internally against labour resource levels against forecasted project workloads. Order Processing – Oversee purchase orders, delivery schedules, and supplier performance to ensure timely fulfilment. Supplier Management – Building and maintaining relationships with suppliers, resolving disputes, and ensuring compliance with contracts. Identifying opportunities to reduce costs, improve efficiency, and optimise the supply chain. Ensuring Suppliers fulfil MRP driven requirements in line with the business demand dates and maintain Supplier on time delivery. Cost Optimisation – Identify cost-saving opportunities while ensuring product quality. Risk Management – Assess supply chain risks and implement mitigation strategies. Compliance & Ethics – Ensure procurement practices align with legal and ethical standards. Technology Utilisation – Utilise procurement software and analytics tools for efficiency and reporting. Team Leadership – Train and manage purchasing staff to enhance performance and collaboration. Stakeholder Collaboration – Liaise with internal teams to align procurement operations with business needs and work closely with other Supply Chain Managers. Process Improvement – Continuously evaluate and enhance procurement processes for efficiency and effectiveness. Quality Control - Working with the internal Quality department and Supplier’s Quality teams to ensure that procured items meet quality standards and specifications. Key Qualifications Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure. Effective communication and negotiation skills. Proven experience in procurement, purchasing, or supply chain management, focus on Procurement principles and practices. Strong knowledge of supplier negotiations and supplier relationship management. Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills. Proficiency in procurement software and data analysis tools. Willingness to get involved in this working manager role. Understanding of budgeting and cost analysis. Knowledge of SAP an advantage Please note: All candidates who wish to be considered for this vacancy must have the right to work in the UK.