What you will do
As Junior Buyer, you will support strategic buyers in the procurement process, supporting the procurement of specific categories and products, and assisting in supplier relationships. You will be responsible for product identification and sourcing of suppliers in line with organisational strategy, supporting the strategic team with cost reduction and supplier/commodity strategy implementation, supporting inventory management through stock / non-stock decisions, data analysis, and ensuring compliance with company regulations and procedures.
How you will do it
1. Assist with the procurement of goods and services, including product and supplier identification, management of supplier purchase agreements, ensuring “best practice” with regards to price, lead-time, payment terms, verifying invoices
2. Build and maintain relationships with suppliers, negotiating pricing and terms, and ensuring timely delivery of goods.
3. Support the operational buying teams with appropriate inventory levels, identifying potential supply risks and reporting back to the procurement team
4. Track spends, analyse trends, and report on savings and performance.
5. Manage a specific category or product line, potentially including research, product development, and market analysis.
6. Work with various departments, such as engineering, internal production facilities, and sales, to ensure smooth procurement and product development.
7. Identify opportunities for cost savings and assisting in the development of cost reduction strategies.
8. Adhere to company procurement policies, procedures, and legal requirements.
What we look for
Required
9. Experience in a buyer or procurement role, ideally within an engineering or manufacturing environment.
10. Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to negotiate effectively with suppliers.
11. Ability to analyse data, identify trends, and make informed decisions.
12. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
13. Ability to identify and resolve issues related to procurement, inventory, and supplier relationships.
14. Knowledge of Engineering and manufacturing processes is advantageous but not a key requirement.
Preferred
15. Procurement qualification, such as CIPS
16. Knowledge/understanding of HVAC and/or chiller parts
17. Experience in using software such as ERP systems, spreadsheets, and purchasing tools
18. Experience managing inventory and purchase orders.