Job Title: Buyer (12-Month Fixed-Term Contract)
Location: Lewes, East Sussex
Salary: £30,000 – £35,000 per annum
Hours: 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday
Shift Pattern: Flexible start between 07:00–09:00; finish between 15:30–17:30
Join a Market Leader in Transport Electronics Manufacturing
We are recruiting a commercially astute Buyer to join our dynamic Purchasing team on a 12-month fixed-term contract. Based in Lewes, this role supports the strategic and operational procurement needs of a £60M+ turnover business serving the global public transport electronics sector.
You will play a key role in maintaining continuity of supply, optimising inventory levels, and driving cost efficiencies within a complex international supply chain. This is a hands-on position suited to an individual with a background in electronic manufacturing and a sound understanding of component sourcing and supplier management.
Key Responsibilities
* Manage material requirements through ERP (MRP) planning and purchase order execution
* Maintain accurate supplier and item records within the ERP system (Microsoft Dynamics preferred)
* Monitor and improve supplier performance, delivery reliability, and cost-effectiveness
* Expedite overdue orders and resolve invoice mismatches to ensure timely payment
* Conduct supplier audits, build strong vendor relationships, and negotiate commercial terms
* Collaborate cross-functionally with Production, Engineering, R&D, Accounts, and Sales
* Identify and qualify alternative components for engineering and NPI requirements
* Monitor stock levels and respond quickly to production shortages
Required Skills & Experience
* Minimum 3 years’ experience in a purchasing role within an electronics or engineering manufacturing environment
* Competent in reading and interpreting technical drawings and specifications
* Strong Excel skills (including pivot tables, lookups, and data analysis)
* Proficient with ERP/MRP systems—Microsoft Dynamics highly desirable
* Skilled in supplier negotiations and cost benchmarking
* Self-directed, resilient, and confident in decision-making
* Strong written and verbal communication skills
Desirable Attributes
* Understanding of supply chain KPIs and performance metrics
* Familiarity with lean procurement and vendor rating systems
* Experience in cross-functional project delivery
What We Offer
* Competitive salary between £30,000 – £35,000 per annum
* Contributory pension scheme
* Private medical insurance
* Company-provided laptop and mobile phone
* 23 days annual leave (rising to 27 with service)
* Flexible working hours and a collaborative team environment
* Company Bonus
Contract Type: 12-Month Fixed-Term Contract
Start Date: As soon as possible
If you have the required procurement experience and are ready to take ownership of a key supply chain function, apply now to join a business that is shaping the future of transport technology