Buyer Wanted — part negotiator, part spreadsheet whisperer, part chaos controller.
Let’s be real:
this isn’t a role for someone who just clicks “Add to Basket.”
We’re looking for a sharp, proactive Buyer who knows their way around lean manufacturing, understands the difference between “cheap” and “cost-effective,” and can keep supply chains flowing without breaking a sweat (or the budget).
If you’ve got an eye for detail, a sixth sense for supplier delays, and can hold your own in a lead-time showdown — keep reading.
What you'll actually be doing (not just what it says on the job title):
* Sourcing components, materials, and services in a way that makes operational sense — not just financial.
* Managing supplier relationships with just the right balance of charm and backbone.
* Raising and chasing purchase orders like your inbox depends on it (because it does).
* Making sure the right stuff shows up, at the right time, for the right price — no drama.
* Digging into data, spotting patterns, and making smart buying decisions based on facts, not feelings.
* Working closely with production, planning, and engineering to keep things lean, smooth, and cost-efficient.
* Identifying supply risks before they become your 4pm problem.
* Supporting continuous improvement projects because yes, there’s always a better way.
What we’re looking for:
* Previous experience in a manufacturing or engineering environment — ideally one that talks the lean language.
* Solid understanding of supply chain principles, demand planning, and cost control.
* Excellent negotiation skills — you don’t fold when a supplier says “lead time’s gone up.”
* ERP system knowledge (if you’ve battled with MRP before, you’ll fit right in).
* Great communicator, eagle-eyed on detail, and not afraid to push back when it counts.
* Someone who understands urgency — and when it’s real vs. when it’s just panic.
What you might not love:
* This isn’t a hands-off, paper-pushing role. It’s active, fast-paced, and occasionally full of surprises.
* Suppliers won’t always play ball — you’ll need a thick skin and a cool head.
* We work lean — so if you like lots of layers and sign-offs, this might feel a bit exposed.
* It’s not glamourous. You won’t be flying off to source luxury goods. You will be chasing someone in Bolton about washers.
What you will get:
* A permanent, full-time role in a team that values autonomy, speed, and smart decisions.
* Proper input into how things are done — not just following someone else’s process.
* Loads of variety. Some days it’s negotiations, some days it’s solving supply chain puzzles.
* The satisfaction of knowing your work directly keeps production moving.
* A culture that gets lean, respects process, and wants you to challenge the status quo — constructively, of course.
If you like spinning plates but prefer them organised by SKU, and you’re ready to get stuck into a role that’s equal parts people, process, and pressure — we’d love to hear from you.
No frills. No fluff. Just smart, efficient buying with impact.
If this is of interest, please APPLY now and let’s connect for a chat!