Our client, a high-performing industrial supply and technical solutions business that supports globally across aerospace, defence, motorsport and advanced manufacturing sectors, are hiring for a Lead Buyer.
🧠The Opportunity
As Lead Buyer, you will take full ownership of the Purchasing function. This is a hands‑on leadership role where you will manage day‑to‑day buying activity while building greater structure, planning discipline, and supplier accountability. The business is looking to move from reactive purchasing to proactive, forecast‑led supply management — and you will be key to driving that change. You will work closely with Sales and Operations to ensure purchasing decisions support customer demand, protect margin, and maintain cash control.
* Own daily purchasing activity, placing and managing purchase orders aligned to demand and stock requirements
* Introduce structured purchasing routines and reorder disciplines to reduce firefighting
* Develop and manage strong supplier relationships to improve lead times, service levels, and commercial terms
* Negotiate pricing and terms to protect margin and support business growth
* Monitor supplier performance and take corrective action where required
* Align purchasing decisions with Sales forecasts and operational capacity
* Challenge unrealistic forecasts or unnecessary stock commitments to protect margin and cash
* Improve stock availability while avoiding excess inventory
* Maintain ERP and purchasing system accuracy and discipline
* Identify and implement supply chain improvements
* Proven buying experience within a fast‑paced B2B, distribution, or industrial environment
* Strong commercial negotiation and supplier management capability
* Process‑driven mindset with the confidence to build structure and accountability
* Comfortable working cross‑functionally with Sales and Operations
* ERP proficiency and strong systems discipline
* Commercial awareness, understanding the impact of purchasing decisions on margin and cash
* Confident, constructive challenger when business priorities are not aligned
* Hands‑on approach, combining leadership with consistent execution
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