Technical Buyer in Aberdeen

From seabed to surface, Acteon develops solutions to the energy industry's most complex problems. We harness data, engineering knowledge and operational expertise to efficiently design, install, maintain, extend the life of, and decommission offshore energy assets to ensure they deliver maximum economic value. Using the latest technology, we gather and analyse hard-to-reach data in the most challenging environments. We partner with customers to apply it to their specific needs and challenges and devise tailored plans to help them safely and responsibly accelerate projects and reduce the total cost of operations. This allows our customers to focus on enhancing their core operations, growing sustainably and profitably and, ultimately, delivering the energy the world needs.

UTEC, Acteon's Geo-services business line, harnesses data to optimise designs, save time and maximise your project's economic value by providing a holistic understanding of the marine environment. Our insights underpin customers' decision-making from design to asset life extension, ensuring every decision delivers.

UTEC are looking to hire a Technical Buyer on a full time, fixed term maternity cover period. Based at their facility in Bridge of Don, Aberdeen, reporting into the Head of Supply Chain & Logistics, the Technical Buyer will be part of the GEO Services Procurement team supporting the business unit/s in meeting their stated goals and project specific contractual obligations. In addition to the core deliverable of procurement execution the role requires interaction with internal stakeholders, external supply base, as well as contract negotiation and management, supplier evaluations, quality management, financial control and weekly/monthly KPI reporting. The job holder will take responsibility for the entire remit of purchasing responsibility utilizing their technical knowledge and expertise on the job and is a specialist in this field.

Duties & Main Responsibilities

• Ensuring that the vision, values, and goals of Geo-services Supply Chain are implemented in a consistent manner.
• Efficient processing of all procurement activities in line with the Business Management System, on time and to a high standard with adherence to local and international legislation.
• Contribute to the continuous adaptation and development of the procedures and processes within the area of Procurement.
• Act as first point of contact in the Supply Chain process.
• Develop ideas and strategies to improve operational efficiency, add value, aid business performance and work towards a strategy of continuous improvement.
• Perform technical procurement and supply activities including pre-qualification, bid / tender management, negotiation, preparation and execution of purchase orders and supply contracts.
• Develop key relationships with business stakeholders and strategic supply partners to improve business.
• Implement change and develop new processes to better procure goods and services.
• Negotiate on improved prices and terms of business with suppliers and review opportunities to make business savings, utilizing negotiation and procurement best practice tools and methods.
• Identify cost reduction opportunities to achieve financial goals.
• Analyse market and delivery trends to develop procurement strategies and processes that support the business in its long and short-term goals.
• Assess risk, review future strategies, and identify potential cost down and improvement opportunities.
• Review current processes for procurement and make recommendations where appropriate.
• Provide periodic reporting for management on purchasing, controls, and processes.
• Quality Assurance of suppliers and vendors.
• Ensure that work is executed efficiently and accurately.
• Collaboration with the Operation management, Engineering, Workshop, Finance department and other related departments to meet project and company goals.
• Expedite orders in accordance with Purchase Order requirements. Working with suppliers to maintain or improve the requested lead time.
• Manage stock and availability with Line Manager & Warehouse teams.
• Develop and maintain a strong foundation of functional skills and knowledge of relevant purchasing and sourcing concepts.
• Manage problems, schedule changes, and ensure changes are reflected within the purchasing systems.
• Balance both tactical executions with strategic initiatives necessary to drive cost reduction projects.
• Actively participate in supplier performance reviews.
• Ensure continuous supply of required goods and materials and communicate any supply problems which may pose a risk or impact on business operations.
• Monitor market trends, competitor strategies and market suppliers.
• Research and evaluate areas of opportunity and reduce costs/lead times where possible.
• Deliver briefs, updates, and reports as and when required.
• Ensure purchase orders are in line with final negotiations with selected suppliers and in line with organizational targets and requirements.
• Ensure flow through financial procedures can be efficiently performed off the back of Procurement processes.

Required:

• Proven experience in Technical Purchasing in an Engineering/Manufacturing business of at least 3 years.
• CIPS or similar qualification or working towards same would be an advantage.
• Fluent written and spoken English.
• Experience with Microsoft Dynamics Nav ERP system highly desirable.
• Experience using Microsoft Office suite required (Outlook, Word, Excel etc).

Skills:

• Ability to manage multiple tasks concurrently and prioritize effectively.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to resolve issues quickly and efficiently.
• Meticulous in handling documentation.
• Ability to work independently and to independently prioritize activities.
• Ability to analyse data and draw supported conclusions.
• Critical thinking skills, excellent math skills.
• Ability to remain flexible and calm in a dynamic environment.