At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage supplier relationships and ensure smooth procurement processes in a fast-paced environment.
- Company: Join Martec Ltd, a leading innovator in precision components for demanding sectors.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, pension plan, bonuses, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team that values innovation and collaboration.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement and strong communication skills are essential.
- Other info: Great career growth potential in a supportive and forward-thinking culture.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 42000 £ per year.
With innovation and engineering at the heart of our business, Martec Ltd (AMAR) has been at the forefront of using the latest technologies and practices for over 30 years, offering the highest performance, quality and reliability where they are needed most. As part of the Amphenol Corporation - a leading global interconnect Fortune 500 specialist company, AMAR is continuing to grow and significantly investing in the future. Based in Whitstable Kent, AMAR designs and manufactures high-quality precision components for harsh and demanding environments for a broad range of applications in sectors such as oil and gas, aerospace, marine, nuclear and defence.
About the Role
Are you highly organised, proactive, and confident managing suppliers in a fast‑paced environment? We’re looking for a Buyer to join our Purchasing team in Whitstable, supporting the day‑to‑day procurement activities that keep our production running smoothly. This is a hands-on, operational role where you will take ownership of order management, expediting, supplier performance and ensuring continuity of supply across the business.
Key Responsibilities
- Purchase Order & Order Book Management
- Create, place, and maintain purchase orders in line with MRP/planning requirements
- Ensure order book accuracy — pricing, quantities, confirmations, and delivery dates
- Maintain high-quality ERP data (lead times, due dates, acknowledgements)
- Supplier Expediting & Delivery Management
- Proactively chase suppliers to ensure on-time delivery
- Expedite critical orders and resolve shortages
- Escalate supply risks and communicate recovery plans
- Work closely with suppliers to ensure commitment to delivery performance
- Supplier Performance & Relationship Management
- Track and monitor supplier OTD/OTIF
- Maintain supplier scorecards and performance data
- Support supplier review meetings (occasional national & international travel)
- Follow up on corrective actions with underperforming suppliers
- Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Work with Planning, Production, Quality, and Logistics teams
- Support shortage meetings and routine production reviews
- Communicate risks early and clearly to internal stakeholders
- Continuous Improvement
- Identify recurring issues and support root-cause investigations
- Contribute to process improvements in purchasing and supply chain
- Ensure compliance with internal procurement policies
Skills, Competencies & Qualifications
Essential
- Experience in procurement, buying, or supply chain
- Strong background in order management and supplier expediting
- Excellent communication skills and confident with suppliers and stakeholders
- Highly organised, detail-oriented, and resilient
- Experience using ERP/MRP systems
- Ability to prioritise effectively in a fast-paced operational environment
Desirable
- CIPS Level 3 or relevant degree
- Background in manufacturing, engineering, automotive, aerospace, or electronics
- Experience with supplier scorecards and performance tracking
- Understanding of planning and inventory principles
About You
We’re looking for someone who is persistent and resilient, proactive in solving problems, calm under pressure, data‑driven and process‑oriented, and who brings a collaborative, 'get it done' mindset to the team.
Why Martec?
At Martec, we believe in fostering an environment where employees can grow, innovate, and contribute to meaningful work. We offer competitive salary & benefits package, opportunities for professional development, a collaborative, forward-thinking team and a culture that values safety, quality, and customer satisfaction.
Are you a driven buyer who thrives in a dynamic operational environment and enjoys working closely with suppliers to keep production moving? We’d love to hear from you.
The Benefits:
- Group Personal Pension Plan
- Holiday Buy Scheme
- Quarterly Bonus Scheme
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Subsidised Restaurant facility
- Free onsite parking
To be considered for this position please click the 'Apply now' button, and thank you for your interest in Martec Ltd.
Buyer in Whitstable employer: Amphenol
Contact Detail:
Amphenol Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Buyer in Whitstable
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their products and values, especially since Martec is all about innovation and quality. Tailor your answers to show how you fit into their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Buyer, you'll need to be confident when dealing with suppliers. Role-play scenarios with friends or family to get comfortable with discussing terms and prices.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining the Martec team. Good luck!
We think you need these skills to ace Buyer in Whitstable
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Buyer role. Highlight your experience in procurement and order management, and don’t forget to mention any relevant skills like using ERP/MRP systems. We want to see how you fit into our fast-paced environment!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the role and how your background aligns with our needs. Be sure to mention your proactive approach and problem-solving skills, as these are key for us.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since you'll be working closely with suppliers and internal teams, it's important to demonstrate your excellent communication skills. Use examples from your past experiences where you successfully managed supplier relationships or resolved issues.
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 ensures you’re considered for the Buyer position. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Amphenol
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand Martec Ltd's business model and the sectors they operate in. Brush up on procurement processes, supplier management, and any relevant technologies. This will show that you're genuinely interested and prepared.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous experience in procurement or supply chain management. Prepare specific examples of how you've managed orders, expedited deliveries, or improved supplier relationships. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the role and the company. Inquire about their current challenges in procurement or how they measure supplier performance. This demonstrates your proactive mindset and genuine interest in contributing to their success.
✨Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Skills
Since the role requires a calm and resilient approach under pressure, be ready to discuss how you've tackled challenges in the past. Share examples where you identified issues, proposed solutions, and successfully implemented changes to improve processes.