About the Company
Textron Specialized Vehicles is a global manufacturer of golf cars, utility and personal transportation vehicles, side-by-side, all-terrain vehicles, professional turf‑care equipment, and ground support equipment.
Role Overview
We are seeking a Buyer that will be office based at our manufacturing facility in Ipswich, Suffolk. As a Buyer, you will play a key role in ensuring the consistent supply of materials and components that keep our operations running smoothly.
Responsibilities
* Identify, evaluate, and select suppliers based on quality, cost and delivery performance for current production and service parts.
* Negotiate pricing, lead times and MOQs to achieve cost savings while maintaining quality and compliance standards. Contracts may be negotiated jointly or by the Senior Buyers.
* Maintain strong supplier relationships to ensure consistent performance and resolve issues related to delivery, quality or pricing.
* Work closely with Engineering, Quality and Production teams to understand technical specifications and material requirements related to ECOs, EDRs and concessions.
* Maintain accurate purchasing and supplier records, including pricing, lead‑times, MOQs and contact details, in line with company policies and UK regulations, including declarations of conformity, tariffs and country of origin.
* Support cost‑reduction initiatives and contribute to continuous improvement activities across the procurement function, including PPV/IPV.
* Ensure all procurement activities align with ethical sourcing practices, sustainability goals and industry standards.
* Utilise forecast data to support inventory management, preventing production delays and optimising stock levels. Support planning with CTB and proactively raise supply risks, including the management of de‑expedites and cancellations.
* Prepare reports on purchasing activity, cost savings and supplier performance for management review.
* Raise purchase orders, manage MRP exceptions and ensure timely PO acknowledgements.
* Support specific projects and undertake additional duties as required.
Qualifications
* Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Engineering or a related discipline (or equivalent experience). CIPS Level 3 (or working towards) is desirable.
* Experience: Minimum of three years’ experience in procurement or buying, ideally within an automotive or manufacturing environment.
* Technical Knowledge: Familiarity with automotive components and materials (e.g. metals, plastics, electronics) and manufacturing processes is advantageous.
* Negotiation Skills: Proven ability to negotiate favourable commercial terms and build effective supplier relationships.
* Analytical Skills: Strong analytical capability with the ability to assess supplier performance, interpret data and identify cost‑saving opportunities.
* Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with internal stakeholders and external suppliers.
* IT Skills: Proficient in procurement systems (e.g. SAP, Oracle) and Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel.
* Organisational Skills: Strong ability to prioritise workload, manage multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.
* Attention to Detail: High level of accuracy and a focus on quality in all aspects of work.
* Problem Solving: Proactive, solution‑focused approach with a results‑driven mindset.
* Teamwork: Collaborative team player with the ability to work independently when required.
* Adaptability: Flexible and responsive to changing priorities and market conditions.
Benefits
* Work‑life balance promoted with every other Friday off.
* 30 days annual leave.
* Competitive rate of pay, reviewed annually.
* Enhanced company pension.
* Life assurance of four times your annual salary.
* Comprehensive Employee Assistance Program for you and your immediate family.
* Access to Textron University’s self‑service training platform.
* Eye care scheme.
* Discounts on gym memberships, shopping and travel through Perks at Work.
* Winter flu vaccination voucher.
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