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- Tasks: Lead procurement strategy, drive cost savings, and manage supplier relationships.
- Company: Join SGS, the global leader in testing, inspection, and certification.
- Benefits: Enjoy a performance bonus, private medical cover, and generous annual leave.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced environment with a focus on sustainability.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in procurement, strong negotiation skills, and data analysis experience required.
- Other info: SGS values diversity and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
We are SGS – the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company. We are recognized as the global benchmark for sustainability, quality and integrity. Our 99,600 employees operate a network of 2,600 offices and laboratories, working together to enable a better, safer and more interconnected world.
SGS’s Head Office supports global operations by driving strategy, innovation, and governance across all business lines—ensuring consistent quality, compliance, and performance worldwide.
We’re looking for an experienced and proactive procurement professional to help deliver cost savings, drive compliance, and support strategic initiatives across the UK and wider SGS group.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Lead the implementation of SGS’s UK procurement strategy in partnership with global and local teams.
- Ensure compliance with procurement policies and help shape new, effective procedures.
- Drive cost savings and value-for-money through smart sourcing and supplier management.
- Set up and manage supplier catalogues on Oracle to streamline purchasing and monitor spend.
- Identify, lead, and report on procurement savings opportunities across the business.
- Promote a culture of smart purchasing across all departments.
- Work with internal teams to support supplier projects and negotiate favourable contracts.
- Ensure supplier performance meets agreed KPIs and SLAs.
What you’ll bring
You’re an experienced procurement professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment. You’re confident working with stakeholders at all levels, negotiating contracts, and finding smart ways to save money while maintaining excellent service. With a keen eye for detail and a proactive mindset, you’re ready to take ownership and drive real impact.
Key Strengths Include
- 5+ years’ experience in procurement, including senior buying roles
- Proven ability to lead contract negotiations and manage supplier performance
- Strong communication skills and confidence working with cross-functional teams
- Comfortable analysing data to inform decisions and track savings
- Able to manage multiple priorities and deliver under pressure
Bonus If You Also Have
- Knowledge of commercial law and supplier T&Cs
- Experience using Oracle P2P systems
- Background in laboratory procurement (e.g., consumables, CapEx)
- CIPS Level 4 qualification or higher
At SGS, we believe in rewarding our employees for their hard work and commitment. As part of our team, you would be eligible for:
- Performance related bonus (discretionary and subject to eligibility criteria)
- Private medical cover (subject to eligibility criteria)
- Competitive pension scheme + Life Assurance
- Generous Annual Leave allowance (increasing with service) plus bank holidays
- An additional day off for your birthday
SGS is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and as such we recruit, hire, train, and promote persons in all job classifications without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristics protected by law.
APPLY NOW for full consideration, if you are selected for an interview, or further consideration, we will be in touch with you directly.
Senior Buyer employer: SGS
Contact Detail:
SGS Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Buyer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with SGS's procurement strategy and values. Understanding their approach to sustainability, quality, and integrity will help you align your experience with their goals during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare specific examples of how you've driven cost savings and improved supplier performance in previous roles. Being able to share quantifiable results will demonstrate your capability and fit for the Senior Buyer position.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former employees of SGS on platforms like LinkedIn. Gaining insights into the company culture and expectations can give you an edge in interviews and help you tailor your approach.
✨Tip Number 4
Brush up on your knowledge of Oracle P2P systems and commercial law. Highlighting your familiarity with these areas during conversations can set you apart as a well-rounded candidate for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Buyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and qualifications required for the Senior Buyer position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience in procurement and supplier management.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your 5+ years of procurement experience, particularly in senior buying roles. Provide specific examples of how you've successfully led contract negotiations and managed supplier performance.
Showcase Your Skills: Demonstrate your strong communication skills and ability to work with cross-functional teams. Mention any experience you have with Oracle P2P systems or knowledge of commercial law, as these are beneficial for the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a tailored cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also conveys your proactive mindset and commitment to driving cost savings and compliance. Make sure to express your enthusiasm for working with SGS and contributing to their procurement strategy.
How to prepare for a job interview at SGS
✨Understand the Company and Its Values
Before your interview, take some time to research SGS and its commitment to sustainability, quality, and integrity. Familiarise yourself with their procurement strategy and how it aligns with their global operations. This will show your genuine interest in the company and help you articulate how you can contribute.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle real-life procurement challenges. Prepare examples from your past experience where you've successfully negotiated contracts or driven cost savings. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills
Since the role involves analysing data to inform decisions, be ready to discuss your experience with data analysis tools and techniques. Highlight specific instances where your analytical skills led to significant savings or improved supplier performance, as this will demonstrate your capability in a key area of the job.
✨Demonstrate Strong Communication Skills
As a Senior Buyer, you'll need to work with various stakeholders. Be prepared to discuss how you've effectively communicated with cross-functional teams in the past. Share examples of how you’ve built relationships and negotiated favourable contracts, showcasing your confidence and interpersonal skills.
