Position: Materials Buyer Location: Leicester Salary: £35-40K benefits We are seeking an experienced and proactive Materials Buyer to join our client's busy procurement team. The ideal candidate will have a strong engineering or manufacturing background, be CIPS qualified and possess the technical ability to interpret engineering drawings. You will play a key role in ensuring timely, cost-effective procurement of materials and components while maintaining the highest standards of quality and supplier performance. Principal Responsibilities: Plan and procure materials required for assembly in line with project requirements, while reducing inventory levels and continually reducing costs. Ensure parts and materials are bought at the most competitive price and delivered on time for production. Identify new suppliers, agree terms and negotiate supply agreements where appropriate, including discount structures and volume rebates. Build and maintain effective supplier relationships, ensuring long-term reliability and performance. Identify, exploit and monitor opportunities for reduced costs and wastage throughout the purchasing function whilst maintaining and improving product quality and on time delivery. Continually monitor supplier performance and address issues related to quality, cost or delivery. Support continuous improvement initiatives withing the purchasing department. Ensure all relevant ISO9001 procedures are adhered to Ensure quality and performance of ordered materials are in line with required standards At all times comply with company policies procedures and instructions Ad-hoc duties in line with business requirementsSkills, Qualifications and Experience: Essential Proven experience as a buyer in a manufacturing/engineering environment. Excellent negotiation and communication skills. Proficient in ERP / MRP systems and Microsoft Office applications. Strong attention to detail and organisational skills. Strong understanding of engineering drawings and technical documentation. Desirable CIPS qualification or equivalent Previous experience using EFACS business system.About Us We are dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. In line with our Diversity and Inclusion policy, we welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. As a Disability Confident Employer, and part of the Nicholas Associates Group, we are committed to supporting candidates with disabilities, and we're happy to discuss flexible working options. We are committed to protecting the privacy of all our candidates and clients. If you choose to apply, your information will be processed in accordance with the Nicholas Associates Group of companies