Senior Buyer
Salary: £40,000 - £50,000 (subject to review)
Contract: Permanent
Location: Marden, Kent
About the Role
Our Client is seeking an experienced Senior Buyer to manage the sourcing and procurement of key materials and components. You will ensure reliable supply, competitive pricing, and high supplier performance while supporting production demands and contributing to strategic cost‑saving initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
* Oversee end‑to‑end procurement for assigned commodities, including supplier sourcing and RFQ management.
* Conduct market research to identify cost‑saving opportunities and understand price trends and supply risks.
* Negotiate pricing, contracts, long‑term agreements, and commercial terms.
* Build strong supplier relationships, monitor performance, and drive improvements in cost, quality, and delivery.
* Resolve supply issues and elevate risks when necessary.
* Support Production, Engineering, Quality, and Planning teams to meet manufacturing needs.
* Source components for new product development projects.
* Maintain accurate procurement data within ERP/MRP systems and ensure compliance with company policies and ethical standards.
* Track KPIs and prepare cost analysis, forecasts, and supplier proposals.
Skills & Experience Required
Essential
* Proven experience in procurement, buying, or supply chain—ideally within manufacturing or engineering.
* Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.
* Ability to analyse data and market trends to make cost‑effective decisions.
* Proficiency with ERP/MRP/SAP systems and Microsoft Excel.
* Excellent communication, relationship‑building, and problem‑solving skills.
Desirable
* CIPS qualification (or working towards it).
* Knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement.
* Experience managing global suppliers or complex commodity categories.
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