A growing medical technology services organisation is seeking an experienced Planner / Buyer to support R&D and manufacturing operations within a regulated environment. This is a hands-on role with real scope to influence supply chain performance in a scaling business serving UK and international clients.
The company provides contract design, development, and manufacturing services to medical device OEMs, with deep expertise in point-of-care diagnostics, disposable components, assay development, and in-house manufacturing.
The Role
You will be responsible for planning and procurement of materials, components, and services to ensure uninterrupted supply across R&D projects and commercial manufacturing. Operating in a multi-client environment, you will manage competing priorities while working closely with R&D, Manufacturing, Quality, and Finance teams.
This role offers the opportunity to play a key part in developing and strengthening supply chain processes, systems, and supplier relationships as the organisation continues to grow.
Key Responsibilities
Production & Materials Planning
Develop and maintain production and material plans aligned to demand forecasts, sales orders, and inventory targets
Process customer purchase orders accurately and compliantly
Coordinate with R&D, manufacturing, and quality teams to ensure material availability
Communicate supply risks, mitigation plans, and status updates to stakeholders
Liaise with customers, suppliers, and logistics partners to ensure timely delivery of finished goods
Procurement & Purchasing
Source, negotiate, and procure raw materials, reagents, consumables, and production supplies
Place purchase orders in line with lead times, order quantities, and approved supplier requirements
Manage supplier performance, resolving issues around cost, quality, or delivery
Ensure compliance with procurement policies and regulatory standards (ISO, GMP, FDA where applicable)
Maintain accurate purchasing and supplier qualification records
Inventory & Systems
Monitor inventory levels and support replenishment strategies
Support cycle counting and inventory reconciliation
Contribute to ERP / MRP system development and optimisation
Act as a subject matter expert for ERP processes over time
Collaboration & Continuous Improvement
Work cross-functionally with R&D, Manufacturing, QA/QC, and Finance
Support supplier audits, onboarding, and improvement initiatives
Deliver sourcing projects for new materials and components
Track and report key supply chain KPIs
Essential Experience & Skills
HND or Degree in a relevant discipline
Proven experience in a Planner / Buyer or similar supply chain role within a regulated industry
Working knowledge of ISO 13485 or equivalent quality standards
Good understanding of GMP principles
Experience using ERP systems (e.g. MS Dynamics Business Central or similar)
Strong Excel capability and analytical skills
Ability to interpret technical specifications and drawings
Sound understanding of supply, demand, and inventory control principles
Strong communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills
Willing and physically able to undertake manual duties where required
Desirable
Experience in medical devices, diagnostics, pharma, or CDMO environments
International shipping and incoterms knowledge
Experience handling hazardous materials
Six Sigma / process excellence exposure
Forklift licence
Experience implementing new supply chain processes and procedures
Why Apply?
This is a chance to join a technically advanced, fast-growing organisation where supply chain capability is critical to success. You’ll have genuine influence, exposure to cutting-edge diagnostic technologies, and the opportunity to shape how the function evolves.