Senior Buyer (Engineering / Manufacturing)
£45,000 - £48,000 + Development + Potential for Progression + 33 Days Holiday + Health & Wellbeing Benefits
Derby
Certain Advantage is hiring for a Senior Buyer, based near Derby. This role is on a permanent basis and is fully site-based.
Are you a Buyer, with experience working in an engineering / manufacturing environment, looking to step into a key role, which has arisen due to ongoing growth, with a high degree of autonomy?
Do you have a strong background in procurement, looking to step into a dynamic role, where you’ll play a key role in driving cost savings, improving supplier performance, and supporting critical operational delivery within a fast-paced, project-led environment?
This is an excellent opportunity to join a well-established, rapidly growing manufacturing business, where you’ll play a critical role in coordinating production activities, supporting teams on the ground, and driving operational standards.
The Company:
We are working with a well-established rail engineering business based in Derby, supporting rolling stock modification, refurbishment, and maintenance programmes across the UK. The business is continuing to grow, with a strong pipeline of work and a focus on operational excellence.
The Role:
This role is for a Senior Buyer, reporting to the Purchasing Manager, with responsibility for sourcing and managing materials and services across engineering and manufacturing categories.
You will play a key role in ensuring materials are delivered on time and in full, while driving cost efficiencies and building strong supplier relationships.
Day to Day:
Procure direct and indirect materials and services, with a focus on engineering and manufacturing categories
Engage early with internal stakeholders and suppliers to ensure optimal sourcing decisions
Lead supplier negotiations and develop cost-saving strategies
Build and manage long-term supplier relationships, improving performance and reliability
Ensure materials are delivered on time and in full to meet operational and project requirements
Work closely with engineering, production, and quality teams to resolve material issues
Manage inventory levels, reduce obsolete stock, and define safety stock strategies
Deliver against key KPIs including cost, quality, service, and cash
Manage and reduce invoice queries
Support wider business projects and ad hoc procurement activities as requiredThe Individual:
Extensive procurement experience within a manufacturing or engineering environment
Proven track record of negotiating and delivering cost savings
Experience managing key supplier relationships
Strong understanding of MRP/ERP systems and inventory management
Excellent communication skills and ability to build internal relationships
Able to work under pressure and solve problems proactivelyQualifications:
Degree qualified (or equivalent experience)
CIPS Level 3 or 4
Full UK driving licenceBenefits:
Employee Electric Car Scheme
Cycle to Work Scheme
Annual Salary Reviews & Pension Contributions
Monthly Rewards & Recognition
Long Service Awards & Gift Vouchers
33 Days Holiday (increasing with service)
Company Socials
Career Development & Sponsored Training
Free Eye Tests & Specsavers Vouchers
Holiday Trading Scheme
Employee Discount Platform (Retail, Gyms, Tech, Travel)
Employee Assistance ProgrammeDoes this sound like your next career move? Apply today.
Working with Certain Advantage
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