Senior Buyer

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Senior Buyer specialising in Technology Procurement to join a forward-thinking organisation on a 12-month fixed-term contract based in Manchester, with the flexibility of hybrid working.

This role is pivotal in supporting the separation of a key business unit and will see you at the heart of technology transformation initiatives. You will play an instrumental part in maturing the procurement function, bringing more spend under management, and adding tangible value through effective sourcing and supplier engagement. The position offers the chance to work closely with cross-functional teams, influence strategic decisions, and contribute directly to the company's competitive advantage within the cybersecurity sector.

• Be at the forefront of technology transformation by managing complex procurement activities that support cutting-edge cybersecurity initiatives and digital innovation.
• Enjoy flexible hybrid working arrangements in Manchester, allowing you to balance professional growth with personal commitments while contributing to impactful projects.
• Collaborate with knowledgeable colleagues across technical, legal, and compliance functions, building strong networks and developing your expertise in a supportive environment.

What you'll do:

As a Senior Buyer Technology Procurement, you will be entrusted with responsibilities that are central to the successful separation of a major business unit. Your day-to-day activities will involve managing all aspects of technology-related procurement ranging from negotiating intricate contracts that safeguard organisational interests to collaborating closely with technical experts who rely on your insight for critical purchasing decisions. You will be expected to navigate complex supplier landscapes while ensuring that every agreement meets stringent security and compliance standards. By engaging proactively with stakeholders across legal, data protection, IT, and finance functions, you will help shape sourcing strategies that underpin both immediate project goals and long-term business objectives.

• Apply deep technical category expertise to manage procurement activities related to technology and cybersecurity products, ensuring alignment with emerging trends and licensing models.
• Negotiate complex technology contracts with a focus on software licensing terms, cloud service level agreements (SLAs), data privacy provisions, intellectual property rights, and cybersecurity compliance requirements.
• Assess and manage supplier risks associated with cybersecurity threats, data breaches, and regulatory compliance by working closely with Legal Counsel, Data Protection teams, and other stakeholders.
• Support procurement efforts that drive technology transformation within the organisation, including the adoption of artificial intelligence solutions and advanced cybersecurity tools.
• Work collaboratively with technical teams to understand detailed requirements and ensure that sourcing decisions meet both operational needs and security standards.
• Participate in sourcing and contract management for projects involving highly sensitive data or critical infrastructure, maintaining strict adherence to confidentiality protocols and risk mitigation strategies.
• Continuously monitor the market for emerging technology vendors, startups, and innovative suppliers to contribute fresh ideas and maintain a competitive edge for the business.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders across multiple functions to ensure seamless execution of procurement strategies during business transitions.
• Lead new sourcing activities from initial market research through to contract award, ensuring value for money while upholding compliance standards.
• Contribute actively to the ongoing development of procurement processes as part of a maturing function focused on delivering measurable value.

What you bring

To excel as a Senior Buyer Technology Procurement you will bring substantial hands-on experience managing end-to-end sourcing processes within technologically advanced settings preferably those operating at a global scale or within regulated industries like cybersecurity. Your background should reflect not only technical acumen but also an ability to interpret complex contractual language relating to software licensing terms or cloud-based service agreements.

• Proven experience in procurement or strategic sourcing within technology categories ideally gained in global cybersecurity or IT environments where complexity is high.
• Comprehensive understanding of software licensing models, cloud services procurement, IT infrastructure acquisition processes, cybersecurity product selection criteria, SLAs, and industry-specific compliance requirements.
• Demonstrated proficiency using leading procurement platforms such as SAP Ariba or Coupa alongside advanced skills in Microsoft Office applications for reporting and analysis.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication abilities complemented by strong negotiation skills that enable you to secure favourable outcomes while maintaining positive supplier relationships.
• A track record of effective stakeholder management across diverse teams including legal counsel, data protection officers, technical specialists and an aptitude for building consensus around shared objectives.
• In-depth knowledge of data privacy regulations (such as GDPR), recognised cybersecurity standards (e.g., ISO 27001), vendor risk assessment methodologies, and best practices for mitigating third-party risks.
• Professional certification such as CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply), CPSM (Certified Professional in Supply Management), or ISM (Institute for Supply Management) is desirable but not essential; practical experience negotiating complex technology contracts is highly valued.
• Experience working on sensitive projects within fast-paced matrixed organisations where confidentiality is paramount and adaptability is required.
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Information Technology, Computer Science or a related discipline.

Robert Walters Operations Limited is an employment business and employment agency and welcomes applications from all candidates