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- Tasks: Manage procurement for aerospace components and ensure quality and cost-effectiveness.
- Company: Join AALTO, a leader in stratospheric technology and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, private medical insurance, and a personal pension plan.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team shaping the future of aerospace in Stratospace.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement and knowledge of aerospace or regulated industries preferred.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Welcome to AALTO, a global leader in Stratospace. Based in Farnborough, AALTO is an Airbus subsidiary that manufactures, operates, and delivers services with its solar-powered, stratospheric platform: Zephyr. Zephyr’s persistence enables continuous flight for months at a time. Its current flight-time record is over 67 days in the stratosphere. From above 60,000+ft, or 20km above ground, AALTO can deliver several applications including direct-to-device connectivity and high-resolution Earth observation. AALTO operates in a new operational layer between most of air traffic and low-Earth orbit, Stratospace. This is where high-altitude platforms led by Zephyr deliver services to commercial and government partners. We can help monitor environments, observe borders, track natural disasters and connect unconnected communities. Join us as we create a new domain of aerospace: Stratospace. You’ll be part of a highly-skilled, innovative and passionate group of people – Team AALTO. Together, we can Unlock Stratospace.
Job purpose
You will manage the end-to-end procurement lifecycle for critical aerospace commodity groups, including Aerostructures, Propulsion, Command & Control Ground Systems, and Payloads. This role ensures timely, cost-effective, and quality-compliant acquisition of components, systems, and services supporting product development, manufacturing, and in-service operations.
As a Direct Procurement Officer, you will work cross-functionally with Engineering, Programme Management, Quality, Manufacturing, and Supplier Quality Assurance teams to drive strategic sourcing, supplier performance, and commercial management. You will play a key role in safeguarding programme delivery, strengthening supply chain resilience, and achieving best value for money. Additionally, you will support the transformation and implementation of improved procurement processes, systems, and performance management.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement procurement strategies for Aerostructures, Propulsion, C2 Ground Systems, and Payloads.
- Conduct market research, supplier analysis, and risk assessments to strengthen the supply base.
- Lead supplier selection, including RFx processes, bid evaluations, and capability assessments.
- Negotiate contracts, pricing, and long-term agreements to secure best value and protect company interests.
- Manage contract changes, claims, cost-reduction initiatives, and budgets for assigned commodities.
- Ensure compliance with procurement governance, export regulations, and aerospace standards.
- Build strong supplier relationships and monitor performance against KPIs for cost, quality, delivery, and technical capability.
- Support supplier development to improve readiness, capacity, and adherence to industry standards.
- Drive recovery actions for underperforming suppliers and mitigate delivery risks.
- Collaborate with Engineering, Programme Management, and Quality teams to align specifications, schedules, and risk management.
- Maintain accurate procurement data and records in ERP and business systems.
Requirements and Skills
- Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Experience in procurement strategy, tendering, negotiation, and contract management.
- Background in aerospace, defence, or other complex, regulated industries.
- Knowledge of technical commodities (e.g., aerostructures, propulsion, electronics) is desirable.
- Familiarity with ISO9001, EN/AS9100, and CAA requirements.
- Relevant experience in Supply Chain, Engineering, Business, or similar fields. Formal qualifications are welcome but not essential.
- Proficiency in M365 and ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Dynamics 365).
- Understanding of sourcing processes and contractual risk management.
Benefits
- Rewarding Excellence: Benefit from our short-term incentive plan that rewards your hard work and dedication.
- Enjoy Your Time Off: Benefit from 25 days of holiday to relax and recharge.
- Stay Healthy: We’ve got your health covered with private medical insurance, along with dental and optical cash back.
- Secure Your Future: Take advantage of our personal pension plan to ensure a comfortable retirement.
- Peace of Mind: Our income protection and life assurance schemes are there to support you when you need it most.
- We Care About You: Our employee assistance programme is always available to provide the support you need.
- Perks Galore: Enjoy a range of employee discounts via Perkbox, because you deserve a treat!
Procurement Officer - Direct in Aldershot employer: AALTO
Contact Detail:
AALTO Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Officer - Direct in Aldershot
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the aerospace industry, especially those connected to AALTO. Use LinkedIn to connect and engage with them; you never know who might help you land that interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching AALTO’s projects and values. Show us that you’re not just interested in the role but also passionate about what we do in Stratospace. Tailor your answers to reflect our mission!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Procurement Officer, you’ll need to demonstrate your ability to negotiate effectively. Role-play with a friend or use online resources to sharpen those skills before the big day.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us you’re genuinely interested in being part of Team AALTO.
We think you need these skills to ace Procurement Officer - Direct in Aldershot
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Procurement Officer role. Highlight your experience in procurement strategy, negotiation, and any relevant aerospace background. We want to see how your skills align with what we do at AALTO!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about joining AALTO and how you can contribute to our mission in Stratospace. Keep it engaging and personal – we love a good story!
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t forget to showcase your strong communication and stakeholder management skills. Mention specific examples where you've successfully managed supplier relationships or driven procurement strategies. We’re all about collaboration here!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get you on board with Team AALTO. Let’s unlock Stratospace together!
How to prepare for a job interview at AALTO
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of procurement strategies, especially in aerospace. Familiarise yourself with key terms like RFx processes and contract management. This will show that you're not just interested in the role but also understand the industry.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Procurement Officer, you'll need to communicate effectively with various teams. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed stakeholder relationships or resolved conflicts in the past. This will demonstrate your ability to collaborate across functions.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you'd handle specific procurement challenges, like supplier performance issues or contract negotiations. Think through some scenarios beforehand and be ready to discuss your thought process and decision-making.
✨Research AALTO and Zephyr
Dive into AALTO's mission and the Zephyr platform. Understanding their goals and how your role fits into the bigger picture will help you articulate why you're a great fit for the team. Plus, it shows genuine interest in the company!
