Overview
We are seeking an experienced and commercially minded Buyer to join a fast‑paced procurement team. This role is responsible for the procurement and management of inventory in a cost‑effective and timely manner, ensuring production requirements are consistently met.
The successful candidate will be a highly organised, detail‑oriented procurement professional with excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship‑building skills. You will thrive in a dynamic environment, working closely with suppliers, customers, and internal stakeholders to achieve the best possible outcomes in quality, cost, and delivery.
This is an excellent opportunity for a Buyer looking to make a tangible impact on procurement performance, supplier relationships, and supply chain efficiency.
Key Responsibilities
Supplier & Stakeholder Management
* Build, develop, and maintain strong supplier relationships.
* Communicate effectively with suppliers regarding day‑to‑day procurement activities.
* Collaborate with internal teams to ensure purchasing decisions align with business objectives and operational requirements.
* Liaise with customers when necessary to support supply chain decisions and maintain service levels.
* Escalate unresolved supply chain or procurement issues appropriately.
Inventory & Demand Planning
* Manage daily demand reports to ensure purchasing activity reflects changing business requirements.
* Place orders in line with agreed minimum order quantities, values, and lead times.
* Maintain accurate procurement and inventory data within ERP systems.
* Establish and review safety stock levels to ensure continuity of supply.
* Monitor inventory levels to minimise excess stock and reduce obsolescence.
Cost Management & Negotiation
* Identify and deliver cost‑saving opportunities through supplier negotiations and strategic sourcing initiatives.
* Challenge and negotiate supplier price increases. Develop supplier partnerships that improve commercial terms and buying power.
Supplier Performance & Delivery
* Manage supplier performance to ensure delivery targets are consistently achieved.
* Monitor and manage open orders, ensuring supply commitments are met.
* Segment suppliers and implement appropriate supplier management strategies.
* Conduct regular supplier reviews to assess order status, lead times, and performance.
* Escalate delivery concerns where necessary and drive corrective actions.
* Work with suppliers to reduce lead times and improve service levels through service agreements, blanket orders, and collaborative planning.
* Implement stock management initiatives such as Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI), Kanban systems, Min/Max controls, and Service Level Agreements (SLAs).
* Share forecasts and demand plans with suppliers to ensure supply chain readiness.
Quality & Continuous Improvement
* Support supplier quality initiatives and collaborate on corrective actions where required.
* Work closely with quality teams to resolve supplier‑related issues and drive continuous improvement.
* Maintain accurate procurement records and supplier information.
* Contribute to ongoing process improvements across procurement and supply chain activities.
Teamwork & Collaboration
* Build positive working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
* Participate in training, development, and team‑building activities.
* Support cross‑functional projects and business improvement initiatives.
* Demonstrate professionalism, accountability, and collaborative working practices at all times.
About You
The ideal candidate will have:
* Previous experience in a Buyer, Procurement, Purchasing, or Supply Chain role.
* Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.
* Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement abilities.
* Experience managing inventory, forecasting, and demand planning.
* Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
* Knowledge of ERP/MRP systems and procurement processes. A proactive approach with the ability to prioritise workloads in a fast‑moving environment.
* Good commercial awareness and a focus on cost reduction and value creation.
Benefits
* Salary £34-37K
* Critical illness insurance
* Health Cash Plan
* Short Day on Friday
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