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- Tasks: Join our team as a Buyer, sourcing materials for cutting-edge projects.
- Company: STS Defence is a dynamic organisation focused on innovative technology solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy a collaborative work environment with opportunities for growth and development.
- Why this job: Be at the heart of impactful projects while developing key supplier relationships.
- Qualifications: Experience in a junior buying role and familiarity with MRP systems required.
- Other info: Candidates must be eligible for UK security clearance.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
We’re looking for a proactive and enthusiastic Buyer to join our dynamic Procurement team! In this key role, you’ll work alongside the Procurement Manager to source and manage a wide range of engineering components, and always aiming for the best in price, delivery, and quality. You’ll play a hands-on role in identifying and converting requirements from Bills of Materials (BoMs), helping to keep projects moving smoothly. You’ll also contribute to refining our purchasing processes, driving improvements that boost efficiency and make a real impact across the business.
Duties
- Requesting for quotations
- Raising purchase orders and producing Purchase Order numbers
- Leading negotiations with suppliers to achieve cost reductions
- Maintaining and developing relationships with supply base
- Ensuring that parts and materials are bought at the most competitive price and delivered on time with no compromise to quality
- Identifying new suppliers and negotiating to improve payment terms and supplier agreements and where appropriate to reduce and streamline non-performing suppliers
- Resolving invoice queries with accounts team
- Supporting the Procurement Manager in developing all core key suppliers and maintain supplier KPI’s in accordance to the Procurement Manager direction
- Supporting and working closely with Engineering and Design department on new projects and new concepts. OR working closely with other Stakeholders within engineering services and assisting with materials estimating
- Analysing quotations and selecting suppliers
- Oversee goods to be returned and monitor for credits
- Communicate with accounts about normal costs, credits, new and existing suppliers
- Continually improving purchasing methods and driving down external spend
- Product Safety Training
Skills/Qualifications
- Confident negotiator with excellent communication skills, both written and oral
- A minimum of CIPS level 3
- Competent in the use of Sage 200, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint and MS Word
- Proven purchasing experience within an engineering/manufacturing environment
- Ability to organise and prioritise workloads, with strong attention to detail
- Ability to independently problem solve and make decisions
- Have the ability to work well within a team
Additional Information
SECURITY – All candidates must be in a position to obtain UK security clearance to SC level. Additional restrictions may apply on certain defence programmes.
UKSV National Security Vetting Solution: guidance for applicants – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Apply Now
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Buyer employer: STS Defence
Contact Detail:
STS Defence Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Buyer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific procurement processes and systems mentioned in the job description, such as MRP and accounting systems. This knowledge will not only help you understand the role better but also demonstrate your commitment to the position during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the defence and maritime sectors. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with potential colleagues or suppliers. Building these relationships can give you insights into the company culture and may even lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in managing supplier relationships and driving cost efficiencies. Think of specific examples where you've successfully negotiated or improved procurement processes, as this will showcase your ability to contribute to the team.
✨Tip Number 4
Research STS Defence and its projects thoroughly. Understanding their mission, values, and recent developments will allow you to tailor your conversations and show genuine interest in how you can support their goals as a Buyer.
We think you need these skills to ace Buyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in procurement and buying roles. Emphasise any familiarity with MRP systems and your ability to manage multiple tasks effectively.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your proactive approach and attention to detail. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully managed supplier relationships or driven down costs in previous roles.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your strong communication and organisational skills. Provide examples of how you've prioritised workloads and met deadlines in a dynamic environment.
Prepare for Security Clearance: Since the role requires UK security clearance, be ready to discuss your background and any potential issues that may arise during the vetting process. Familiarise yourself with the requirements outlined on the GOV.UK website.
How to prepare for a job interview at STS Defence
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous experience in a buying role. Highlight specific examples where you successfully managed procurement processes, evaluated quotations, or developed supplier relationships. This will demonstrate your capability and fit for the position.
✨Understand MRP Systems
Familiarise yourself with MRP systems and accounting software, as these are crucial for the role. Be ready to explain how you've used these tools in past positions to manage purchase orders and track inventory effectively.
✨Emphasise Communication Skills
Since the role involves collaboration across teams and with suppliers, emphasise your strong communication skills. Prepare examples of how you've successfully navigated stakeholder relationships and resolved conflicts in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Adaptability
The job requires working in a dynamic environment, so be ready to discuss how you've adapted to changing priorities in the past. Share instances where you took a proactive approach to overcome challenges and improve processes.
