Buyer

The Buyer plays a key role in ensuring the efficient supply of materials and components to meet operational and customer requirements. Reporting to the Procurement Manager, the successful candidate will manage supplier relationships, negotiate commercial agreements, monitor inventory levels, and drive improvements in cost, quality, and delivery performance. Working collaboratively across the business, the Buyer will help support production continuity and contribute to the achievement of organisational goals.

Main Responsibilities

• Locate, develop and manage a portfolio of suppliers.
• Source and procure goods and services in accordance with company processes and procedures.
• Obtain and evaluate supplier quotations based on price, quality, lead time, and technical requirements.
• Negotiate pricing, delivery schedules, payment terms, and supply agreements with suppliers to minimise risk, reduce total costs, reduce lead times and improve quality levels.
• Monitor and maintain department databases to ensure that supplier records such as price and lead times are kept up to date.
• Raise and manage purchase orders using the company's ERP system.
• Monitor supplier performance, including on-time delivery and quality.
• Work closely with engineering, assembly, planning, quality and customer support to meet operational requirements.
• Identify alternative suppliers and implement cost-saving initiatives without compromising quality.
• Resolve supplier issues related to shortages, quality concerns, or delivery delays.
• Ensure purchased materials comply with engineering specifications and company standards.
• Monitor inventory levels and support stock optimisation to minimise shortages and excess inventory.
• Ensure compliance with company procurement policies and relevant health, safety, environmental, and ethical procurement standards.

Skills and Experience

Essential

• Experience in purchasing within an engineering environment.
• Good understanding of mechanical components, engineering drawings and specifications.
• Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.
• Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Office.
• Excellent organisational and time management skills.
• Strong communication and problem solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities with minimal supervision.

Desirable

• CIPS qualification Level 4 or working towards.
• Experience with supplier audits and performance management.
• Familiarity with continuous improvement principles.