Join Oxford Instruments – The Business of Science®
At Oxford Instruments, our purpose is to accelerate breakthroughs that create a brighter future. Our cutting-edge technologies enable scientists and engineers to deliver world-changing innovations across industries and research.
We’re looking for a Senior Buyer to join our Materials Analysis business unit – a global leader in advanced microscopy and scientific instrumentation. If you thrive in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and enjoy building strong supplier partnerships, this is an exciting opportunity to make a real impact.
About the Role
As a Senior Buyer, you will take ownership of procurement activities for a defined category of products and services. You’ll play a critical role in ensuring availability, quality, and cost-effectiveness of materials, while driving continuous improvement across the supply chain.
This role blends hands‑on operational purchasing with strategic supplier management, giving you the opportunity to influence performance, reduce costs, and shape sourcing strategies.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Purchasing
* Raise and manage purchase orders in line with MRP requirements
* Monitor supplier delivery performance, lead times, and inventory levels
* Expedite orders and resolve supply chain bottlenecks
* Collaborate cross‑functionally with Production, Engineering, Planning, and Finance
* Support new product introductions through sourcing and prototype ordering
* Proactively identify risks to supply and implement mitigation plans
* Source, evaluate, and onboard suppliers based on quality, cost, and service
* Lead sourcing projects and present business cases to senior stakeholders
* Build strong supplier relationships and drive performance improvements
* Conduct supplier reviews and site visits
* Negotiate pricing, terms, and contracts
* Develop and implement category strategies aligned with business goals
Cost & Performance Optimisation
* Identify and deliver cost reduction opportunities
* Analyse data to improve procurement and inventory performance
* Support inventory strategies such as VMI or consignment stock
Compliance & Quality
* Ensure procurement activities meet internal controls and quality standards
* Resolve supplier quality issues and manage returns
* Support sustainability and ethical sourcing initiatives
What We’re Looking For
* Proven experience in procurement or supply chain
* Strong knowledge of ERP/MRP systems
* Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
* Strong analytical and problem‑solving capability
* Ability to prioritise in a fast‑paced, complex environment
* Experience in a manufacturing or engineering environment
* CIPS qualification (or working towards)
* Degree in Supply Chain, Business, or related field
* Knowledge of inventory management approaches (e.g. Kanban, VMI)
Working at Oxford Instruments Materials Analysis – What’s in it for you?
* Annual leave: 25 days plus bank holidays and the option to purchase up to 12 weeks more
* Employee Assistance Programme; including 24/7 telephone support, access to counselling, financial and debt management and access to trained legal advisors
* Private health insurance, dental insurance and life assurance
Money & lifestyle –
* MyDiscounts; save money with a number of leading retailers
* Car salary exchange scheme: sacrifice part of your salary in exchange for a fully serviced, comprehensive insured electric or hybrid vehicle
* TechScheme and CycleScheme: Purchase a bike and/or Tech or home goods from Currys/IKEA and spread the cost over 12 months.
* Pension; all employees are eligible to join the Group Pension Plan administered by AVIVA.
* Share incentive plan: Invest in your future and share in the success of the company by joining the share incentive plan.
Development –
* Encouragement and support to achieve professional and or academic qualifications to support your development and growth
* Defined career paths and regular reviews
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