Buyer

The Role
We are looking for an experienced Technical Buyer to join our team. The successful candidate will be responsible for the timely placement and management of purchase orders, ensuring materials, components and services are available to support production.

You will manage a selection of suppliers, ensure on-time delivery while maintaining appropriate inventory levels and avoiding shortages. The role will involve working closely with Engineering, Planning, Sales and Manufacturing teams to ensure purchasing requirements are met efficiently and cost-effectively.

Key Responsibilities

• Place purchase orders in line with production and material requirements.
• Monitor and manage supplier deliveries to ensure materials arrive on time.
• Prepare and distribute weekly expediting reports and follow up with suppliers.
• Analyse ERP system requirements and exception messages, taking appropriate purchasing action.
• Prepare and issue relevant documentation to suppliers, including drawings, BOMs and other technical information where required.
• Manage selected suppliers to maintain appropriate inventory levels and ensure a consistent flow of materials.
• Develop a strong understanding of key commodities and the relevant supplier base.
• Maintain accurate purchasing information and develop a thorough working knowledge of the company ERP system.
• Work closely with Engineering, Planning, Sales and Manufacturing to resolve purchasing and supply issues.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and put forward ideas to improve purchasing and supply chain processes.
• Monitor supplier performance and take action where required to minimise delays and shortages.
• Support continuous improvement and maintain high standards of quality, environmental and health and safety compliance.
• Carry out any other duties or responsibilities as required.

Skills & Experience
Previous experience in a purchasing / procurement role, ideally within a manufacturing or engineering environment.

Must have CIPS Level 5 or equivalent experience/qualification.

Experience purchasing electronic or electro-mechanical components would be advantageous.

Strong IT skills with good working knowledge of Microsoft Office.

Experience using an ERP system.

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.

Good attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities.

Ability to work effectively with internal teams and external suppliers.

Proactive approach with a strong focus on meeting deadlines and achieving results.

Ability to remain calm and effective when dealing with changing priorities, delays and unexpected issues.

Strong organisational skills and the ability to work independently.

A professional and ethical approach to supplier and internal relationships