Due to growth, we have an exciting new opportunity for a Strategic Buyer to join our team, supporting our Chandler’s Ford Branch.
The Strategic Buyer will be responsible for achieving the optimum value on total costs through sourcing strategies, supplier evaluation and selection, performance monitoring, and supplier relationship management.
This role also involves leading and mentoring junior members of the Purchasing & Supply Chain team, fostering their growth through coaching and training. We seek someone passionate about developing people and experienced in leading teams to success.
You will contribute to developing and implementing supply chain strategies, especially focusing on logistics, and participate in continuous improvement initiatives across the team.
About The Role
Supporting our Chandler’s Ford Branch, the Strategic Buyer will:
* Develop and analyze Category Strategies and produce Category Reviews to meet departmental & business objectives, with a focus on logistics and transport of goods and services.
* Lead and support the development of junior team members through mentorship, coaching, and guidance.
* Work with Operational Buyers to maintain the supply base, including developing improvement plans for underperforming suppliers.
* Review and improve existing processes in collaboration with the wider Supply Chain team.
* Manage day-to-day operations to ensure processes run effectively.
* Review landed costs data monthly to ensure accuracy.
* Manage supplier relationships to achieve best prices and value, including conducting on-site audits.
* Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to resolve quality and commercial issues promptly.
* Introduce best practices and new processes, including training and upskilling team members.
Qualifications & Experience
* Proven Strategic Procurement Experience within manufacturing, distribution, or engineering sectors.
* Knowledge of logistics and inventory management, with strategy development experience.
* Experience in leading and mentoring teams, with a passion for coaching and talent development.
* CIPS Level 4 or equivalent Supply Chain Qualification, or working toward it.
* Educated to A Level standard or equivalent.
* Results-driven with strong communication skills to engage stakeholders at all levels.
* Ability to negotiate effectively with suppliers to achieve optimal contract terms.
* Proficiency in using MS Office, especially Excel for data analysis.
* Valid UK driving license.
* Experience in Automotive or Aerospace industries is preferred but not essential.
What we can offer you
Our benefits package includes:
* Competitive salary
* Eligible for bonus scheme (annual and quarterly)
* Medicash medical expenses scheme
* Pension scheme with contributions based on total earnings
* 25 days holiday + 8 Bank Holidays
* Long service holiday increases
* 3x annual salary life insurance (DIS)
* Support for development and training
* Employee assistance programme and mental health support
* Employee discount scheme
* Employee referral scheme
Please note: Due to the nature of the role, this is office-based, requiring presence at Chandlers Ford 5 days a week.
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