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- Tasks: Plan and procure materials for innovative engineering projects in a dynamic manufacturing environment.
- Company: Established Leicester-based manufacturing business with a supportive team culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, early Friday finish, generous holiday, and health cash plan.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on production efficiency and supplier relationships while growing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in materials planning and strong negotiation skills required.
- Other info: Join a stable company with excellent career growth opportunities and a collaborative atmosphere.
The predicted salary is between 29000 - 33000 £ per year.
Ensure you read the information regarding this opportunity thoroughly before making an application.
Location: Leicester
Salary: £35,000 – £38,000
Hours: 38 hours per week (Mon–Thu 07:30–16:15, Fri 07:30–12:30)
Are you an experienced Materials Planner / Buyer from a manufacturing or engineering background, looking for a role where you can really influence cost, quality and on-time delivery? We’re recruiting a Materials Planner / Buyer for an established Leicester-based manufacturing business. You’ll join a busy procurement team and take responsibility for planning, sourcing and managing materials and components used in a range of engineered products supplied into UK and international markets.
If you enjoy negotiating with suppliers, working with engineering drawings and making sure production has what it needs, when it needs it, this could be a great fit.
The role – Materials Planner / Buyer
- Plan and procure materials and components in line with project and production requirements.
- Ensure parts are purchased at competitive prices and delivered on time to support manufacturing schedules.
- Use ERP/MRP systems to manage demand, stock levels and purchase orders.
- Identify, evaluate and onboard new suppliers where needed, negotiating terms, discounts and volume agreements.
- Build and maintain strong supplier relationships, focusing on quality, reliability and cost.
- Monitor supplier performance (OTD, quality, cost) and address any issues.
- Support cost reduction and continuous improvement initiatives within the purchasing function.
- Ensure all purchasing activity complies with ISO 9001 procedures and internal policies.
- Check that ordered materials meet required technical and quality standards.
About you
To be considered for this Materials Planner / Buyer role, you must have:
- Proven experience as a Buyer / Materials Planner in a manufacturing or engineering company.
- The ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and technical documentation.
And ideally you will also:
- Hold a CIPS qualification or be actively working towards CIPS.
- Have strong negotiation and communication skills, confident dealing with suppliers at all levels.
- Be proficient with ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Office (especially Excel).
- Have high attention to detail, strong organisational skills and a proactive approach.
Desirable:
- Experience using EFACS or a similar business system.
What’s on offer
- Salary £35,000 – £38,000, depending on experience.
- 38-hour working week with a Friday early finish (07:30–12:30).
- OTD bonus scheme.
- 4.5% contributory pension.
- Life insurance (3x salary).
- Health cash plan and cycle to work scheme.
- 25 days’ holiday plus bank holidays.
- Free on-site parking + free tea & coffee.
- Stable, long-established manufacturing business with a supportive team culture.
If you’re an experienced Materials Planner / Buyer from a manufacturing or engineering environment, with CIPS (or working towards it), please apply with your CV to be considered.
Materials Buyer in Leicester employer: 365 People
Contact Detail:
365 People Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Materials Buyer in Leicester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the manufacturing and engineering sectors. Attend industry events or join relevant online groups. You never know who might have a lead on that perfect Materials Planner / Buyer role!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your negotiation skills. Since this role involves dealing with suppliers, practice how you’d handle different scenarios. We recommend role-playing with a friend to get comfortable with your responses.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your technical know-how! Be ready to discuss your experience with ERP/MRP systems and how you've used them to manage materials effectively. This will demonstrate your fit for the role and impress potential employers.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search. Let’s get you that Materials Planner / Buyer position!
We think you need these skills to ace Materials Buyer in Leicester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully: Before you start your application, make sure to read through the job description thoroughly. It’ll give you a clear idea of what we’re looking for in a Materials Planner / Buyer and help you tailor your CV and cover letter accordingly.
Show Off Your Relevant Experience: When writing your CV, highlight your experience as a Buyer or Materials Planner in a manufacturing or engineering setting. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so don’t hold back on those key achievements!
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal and specific to us. Mention why you’re excited about the opportunity and how your skills in negotiation and supplier management can benefit our team.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at 365 People
✨Know Your Materials
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of materials and components relevant to the role. Familiarise yourself with common engineering drawings and technical documentation, as this will help you demonstrate your expertise during the interview.
✨Show Off Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare examples of past negotiations you've successfully conducted with suppliers. Highlight how you achieved competitive pricing or improved delivery times, as this will showcase your ability to influence cost and quality effectively.
✨Understand ERP/MRP Systems
Since the role involves using ERP/MRP systems, be ready to discuss your experience with these tools. If you’ve used specific systems like EFACS, mention that too! This shows you’re not just familiar but also comfortable with the technology they'll expect you to use.
✨Build a Connection
During the interview, focus on building rapport with your interviewers. Ask insightful questions about their procurement processes and team dynamics. This not only shows your interest in the role but also helps you assess if the company culture aligns with your values.
