Technical Buyer – Metal Powders & Critical Materials
Location: Oxford (up to 1 day from home/week)
Salary: £50,000 to £60,000 per annum + Excellent Benefits
Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Overview
A forward-thinking, technology-led manufacturer in the advanced materials sector is seeking a Technical Buyer to oversee the procurement of metal powders, critical production materials, and globally sourced components. This role plays a vital part in ensuring a secure, cost-effective and compliant supply chain, supporting both day-to-day operations and long-term production strategy.
Ideal for someone with procurement experience in a manufacturing setting, particularly involving metals, powders or advanced components, the position requires strong commercial acumen, supplier management capability and the ability to coordinate international logistics within a fast-paced environment.
Key Responsibilities
Sourcing and Supplier Management
Source and onboard suppliers for powders and production-critical inputs
Negotiate commercial terms and maintain supplier pricing and performance data
Support the development of dual-sourcing strategies and risk mitigation plans
Procurement and Inventory
Translate production schedules and MRP signals into timely purchase orders
Maintain accurate ERP data on lead times, costs and inventory parameters
Forecast demand in collaboration with planning and sales functions
Cost, Risk and Data Management
Monitor material, freight and inventory costs and identify efficiencies
Maintain supplier risk registers and ensure data accuracy across systems
Provide reporting dashboards to support production and commercial decisions
Logistics and Inventory Control
Oversee inbound shipments and international logistics, including customs compliance
Supervise goods-in processes, ensuring accurate receipt, traceability and stock control
Optimise packaging and documentation for export, aligning with client and regulatory requirements
Team and Process Leadership
Lead and support the Goods-In and Inventory function
Develop SOPs across procurement, inventory and logistics operations
Drive continuous improvement and cross-functional alignment with Engineering, Quality and Finance
Candidate Profile
Essential Experience and Skills
Procurement or supply chain experience within a manufacturing environment
Background in powders, metals or technical materials (preferred)
ERP or MRP proficiency and strong data management discipline
Understanding of incoterms, customs and international logistics
Experience with traceability, batch control and quality systems
Confident in Excel; familiarity with Power BI and CIPS advantageous
Key Attributes
Proactive with a strong ownership mindset
Analytical and commercially aware
Collaborative and process-focused
Detail-oriented with a strong safety ethos
This is a high-impact role within a cutting-edge manufacturing environment. If you're looking to apply your procurement expertise in a technical and fast-moving setting, we encourage you to apply