Commodity Buyer / Senior Buyer - Tobridge, Kent
* Salary £40 - £50K DOE
* Full-time
* On-site preferred
* SAP essential
Purpose of the Role
The Commodity Buyer is responsible for sourcing, negotiating, and managing specific commodity categories to ensure consistent supply, cost competitiveness, and supplier performance. This role ensures materials and components are available to meet production schedules while driving cost savings, quality improvements, and strong supplier relationships.
Key Responsibilities
1. Procurement & Sourcing
* Manage the end-to-end procurement process for assigned commodities.
* Source new suppliers and evaluate alternative materials or components to reduce costs and enhance supply continuity.
* Conduct market research to understand price trends, supply risks, and global commodity movements.
* Review RFQs, negotiate pricing, and secure best-value agreements aligned with organisational goals.
2. Supplier Management
* Develop and maintain strong relationships with existing suppliers to ensure dependable supply.
* Monitor supplier performance in terms of cost, quality, delivery, and compliance.
* Conduct supplier reviews, audits, and performance improvement activities.
* Resolve supply issues and escalate risks to the business where required.
3. Cost & Contract Management
* Support cost-saving and value engineering initiatives while ensuring material availability.
* Prepare and present cost analysis, forecasts, and supplier proposals.
* Negotiate commercial terms, long-term agreements, and service-level expectations.
4. Cross-Functional Collaboration
* Work closely with Production, Engineering, Quality, and Planning teams to support manufacturing requirements.
* Assist in new product development projects by sourcing suitable materials and components.
* Ensure procurement decisions support overall production efficiency and company strategic goals.
5. Data, Systems & Compliance
* Maintain accurate procurement data within ERP/MRP systems.
* Ensure compliance with company policies, quality standards, and ethical procurement practices.
* Track commodity KPIs and generate reports as required.
Skills & Experience Required
Essential
* Proven experience in procurement, buying, or supply chain roles-preferably within manufacturing or engineering environments.
* Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.
* Ability to analyse data, interpret market trends, and make cost-effective decisions.
* Proficient with ERP/MRP/SAP systems and Microsoft Excel.
* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Desirable
* CIPS qualification (or studying towards it).
* Knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement principles.
* Experience managing global suppliers or complex commodity categories.
Key Competencies
* Commercial awareness
* Decision-making
* Problem-solving
* Relationship building
* Attention to detail
* Adaptability and resilience
TPA Recruit is a specialist recruitment agency acting on behalf of our client to source and assess suitable candidates for this position. All applications will be reviewed and processed by our team, who will liaise directly with shortlisted individuals throughout the hiring process