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- Tasks: Lead procurement for complex engineering projects and manage supplier performance.
- Company: Join a leading defence tech company known for innovation and global impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, 25 days holiday, early finishes on Fridays, and flexible leave options.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission-driven team tackling real-world challenges in defence technology.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in procurement, CIPS certification, and strong negotiation skills required.
- Other info: Opportunity to work on high-profile international projects with a supportive culture.
UK-Based with Global Reach
£35,000 - £45,000 plus comprehensive benefits package including company pension, 25 days holiday, early finish on a Friday.
Join a cutting-edge force in defence innovation, where engineering excellence meets real-world impact. They deliver advanced technology systems, world-class engineering support, and mission-critical solutions that power defence operations around the globe. They've built a reputation for tackling complex challenges with precision, reliability, and unwavering commitment to safety. With key facilities across the UK and partnerships worldwide, they support a diverse client base that includes defence agencies, government bodies, and commercial enterprises.
Why Join?
A global presence gives their people opportunities to work across international markets, engage with high-profile projects, and grow their expertise in a fast-moving, purpose-driven environment. They blend technical depth with a hands-on approach, ensuring every project delivers measurable impact.
The Opportunity:
You will play a critical role in ensuring the success of complex engineering and manufacturing programmes. Reporting to a Senior Director, you will oversee procurement activities from strategic sourcing to supplier performance management.
What You Will Do:
- Translate planning and project needs into clear purchasing requirements.
- Identify, evaluate, and engage suppliers to meet demanding quality and delivery standards.
- Take the lead on subcontractor management - negotiating costs, timelines, and technical support.
- Stay ahead of potential delays or issues through proactive risk management.
- Support engineering teams with supplier alignment and delivery performance.
- Ensure all supplier activities meet project and commercial expectations.
What You Will Bring:
- Proven track record in dynamic, high-value procurement roles (5+ years).
- Strong commercial instincts and negotiation skills.
- Knowledge of military standards, subcontractor compliance, and commercial frameworks.
- CIPS certification (essential).
- Experience with importing/exporting.
- Understanding of fabrication, electro-mechanical assembly, and tooling processes.
- Strong multitasking skills with attention to detail and resilience under pressure.
- Full UK driving licence.
What You Will Get:
- Competitive salary.
- Early finish on Fridays.
- 25 days holiday + bank holidays + 3-day Christmas closure.
- Paid paternity leave & flexible maternity options.
- Training, development, and apprenticeship programmes.
- Company pension & long-service rewards.
- Birthday holiday & recruitment referral bonuses.
Ready to step into a senior-level role where your decisions shape the delivery of vital defence programmes? Apply now and be part of something bigger.
Senior Buyer employer: Jonathan Lee Recruitment Ltd
Contact Detail:
Jonathan Lee Recruitment Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Buyer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and technologies in defence procurement. This will not only help you understand the industry better but also allow you to engage in meaningful conversations during interviews, showcasing your passion and knowledge.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the defence sector, especially those involved in procurement. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to build connections that could lead to valuable insights and potential referrals for the Senior Buyer position.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples from your past experience that demonstrate your negotiation skills and ability to manage supplier relationships. Being able to articulate these experiences clearly can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the company’s recent projects and partnerships. Understanding their current initiatives will allow you to tailor your discussions and show how your skills align with their goals, making you a more attractive candidate for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Buyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in procurement, especially in dynamic and high-value roles. Emphasise your negotiation skills and any experience with military standards or subcontractor compliance.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that clearly outlines your motivation for applying to this specific role. Mention your understanding of the defence sector and how your background aligns with the company's mission and values.
Highlight Relevant Certifications: Ensure you mention your CIPS certification prominently in your application. This is essential for the role and will demonstrate your commitment to professional standards in procurement.
Include Contact Information: Double-check that your CV includes your name, email address, phone number, and location. This is crucial for the recruitment process, as your CV will be forwarded to Jonathan Lee Recruitment.
How to prepare for a job interview at Jonathan Lee Recruitment Ltd
✨Research the Company
Before your interview, take some time to understand the company's mission, values, and recent projects. This will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also show your genuine interest in their work in defence innovation.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Make sure to emphasise your previous procurement roles, especially those that align with the defence sector. Discuss specific examples where you've successfully managed suppliers or negotiated contracts, as this will demonstrate your capability for the Senior Buyer position.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Given the technical nature of the role, be ready to discuss military standards, compliance, and procurement frameworks. Brush up on your knowledge of fabrication and assembly processes, as these may come up during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Since negotiation is a key part of the Senior Buyer role, prepare to discuss your approach to negotiating costs and timelines. Consider sharing a specific instance where your negotiation skills led to a successful outcome, highlighting your commercial instincts.
