Job Title: Senior Strategic Buyer
Location: Shipley / Leeds (frequent UK travel + occasional international)
Salary: £45,000 - £50,000
Job Type: Permanent
We’re seeking a Senior Strategic Buyer to lead procurement activity for high-value, precision-engineered components and specialist services within a regulated, technically complex manufacturing environment. This is a critical role focused on ensuring continuity of supply, contractual strength, and long-term value for advanced production operations.
Key Responsibilities:
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Develop and execute sourcing strategies for complex components and services
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Deliver value through balanced cost, quality, and delivery approaches
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Identify, evaluate, and onboard suppliers aligned to quality and commercial objectives
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Manage key supplier relationships, host review meetings, and drive performance
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Draft, review, and negotiate supplier contracts to ensure legal and regulatory compliance
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Conduct market research and track emerging sourcing opportunities
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Implement and manage category strategies aligned with procurement objectives
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Build and secure a robust supply chain to support short and long-term business needs
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Lead tenders, supplier selection, and contract award activities
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Collaborate with Engineering, Production, Quality, and Finance to align on requirements
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Apply structured risk management across critical spend areas
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Monitor and improve supplier performance using KPI data and feedback loops
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Resolve issues with delivery, quality, or cost through active supplier engagement
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Champion sourcing within the wider business to improve cross-functional collaboration
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Support contract implementation to protect commercial interests and supply continuity
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Provide operational support and cover for peers and management when required
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Promote ethical procurement practices and professional integrity
Key Requirements:
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5+ years' experience in procurement within manufacturing or engineering
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Proven record of delivering cost reductions and supplier-led innovations
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Strong understanding of strategic sourcing, contract law, and supply chain risk
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Skilled in category management and supplier development
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Ability to read engineering drawings and interpret technical specifications
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Confident negotiator and influencer at all levels
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Commercially focused with a professional, solutions-driven mindset
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Excellent communication and cross-functional working skills
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Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Engineering, or Business (CIPS desirable)
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ERP/MRP experience (e.g., SAP, Oracle) essential
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Organised, resilient, and methodical approach to procurement challenges
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Strong analytical skills and strategic thinking ability
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Able to travel frequently across the UK, with occasional international visits
Apply now to take ownership of key procurement activity in a high-tech, quality-focused manufacturing setting