At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to source and develop suppliers for innovative engineering projects.
- Company: Dynamic company at the forefront of engineering and motorsport.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Exciting career path with exposure to diverse engineering challenges.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced environment while working with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: Experience in technical purchasing and strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
We are looking for a Buyer to join our purchasing team and provide credible procurement capability by finding, qualifying and developing the right suppliers and securing the best commercial and technical outcomes.
You will work closely with engineering and quality, translating technical requirements into sourcing decisions for direct purchases (production materials and components) and indirect purchases (tooling and equipment).
The role covers three very different business streams: OE programmes with long development cycles and strict customer requirements, top level motorsport where lead times are short, and upgrade kits where cost and availability drive commercial success.
The Role
- Sourcing and supplier selection
- Lead sourcing projects for new and existing parts, from technical review through to supplier nomination and contract award
- Review drawings, specifications and requirements with Engineering, and challenge them where cost, manufacturability or supply risk can be improved
- Prepare and issue RFQs, compare quotations on a total cost basis and recommend suppliers to the Procurement Manager
- Identify and develop new suppliers, particularly for specialist, low-volume and high-mix requirements
- Make make-versus-buy and process selection recommendations (machined, cast, forged or fabricated)
- Supplier qualification and quality
- Qualify new suppliers through capability assessments, audits, samples and first article inspection
- Support OE programmes with supplier approval, PPAP/FAI and change control requirements
- Assess alternative materials and processes proposed by suppliers, working with Engineering to validate them
- Commercial management
- Build should-cost models and cost breakdowns to support negotiation and challenge quotations
- Negotiate prices, terms, tooling and long-term agreements, in conjunction with the Purchasing Manager
- Develop cost reduction initiatives and track savings
- Analyse spend and market data to support category strategies and identify opportunities
- Ensure business plan objectives are met including monthly Price Variance.
- Indirect and capital sourcing
- Lead sourcing for indirect categories, including machine tools, cutting tools, test and calibration equipment, subcontract processing, maintenance and professional services
- Run competitive tenders and evaluate capital equipment purchases with budget holders
- Risk and compliance
- Assess supplier risk, including financial health, single-source exposure and capacity, and recommend mitigation
- Support compliance with export control, trade regulations and quality standards (IATF 16949 / ISO 9001)
- Maintain accurate supplier approval, contract and sourcing records
- ESG and responsible sourcing
- Embed environmental, social and governance criteria into supplier selection, tender evaluation and contract terms
- Assess suppliers against our Supplier Code of Conduct, covering human rights, labour practices, health and safety, anti-bribery and corruption, and business ethics
- Carry out supply chain due diligence on high-risk materials and regions, including conflict minerals and traceability of raw materials such as carbon fibre, titanium, aluminium and rare metals
- Collect and review supplier sustainability data, including carbon emissions, energy use, waste, recycled content and environmental certifications (such as ISO 14001, ISO 45001 and ISO 50001), to support the company's reporting and customer requirements
- Respond to OE customer sustainability questionnaires and audits, and support supplier ratings such as NQC
- Work with suppliers to reduce environmental impact, set improvement targets and identify lower-carbon materials, processes and logistics options
- Support our Modern Slavery Act statement and wider ESG reporting by maintaining accurate supplier information
- What We Want From You
- Experience in technical purchasing, sourcing or supplier development within a manufacturing or engineering environment
- Strong ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications
- Proven experience running RFQs, evaluating quotations and negotiating with technical suppliers
- Understanding of supplier qualification, quality systems and traceability requirements
- Strong analytical skills, including should-cost or cost breakdown analysis
- Confident communicator who can work with engineers, suppliers and senior stakeholders
- Proficient in Microsoft Excel (lookups and pivot tables) and experienced with ERP/MRP systems
- Experience in automotive, motorsport, aerospace or other precision engineering
- Knowledge of machined components, castings, forgings, friction materials or composites
- Experience with PPAP/FAI and OE customer supplier-approval processes
- Experience with international sourcing, customs and import regulations
- MCIPS or working towards it, and a degree or technical qualification in engineering, supply chain or business
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
Buyer in Coventry employer: AP Racing Ltd
At AP Racing, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at the heart of the motorsport and high-performance automotive industry. Our culture fosters energy, resilience, and ownership, providing employees with unique opportunities for growth and development while working alongside some of the most exciting names in the field. With a focus on collaboration and innovation, we ensure that our team members are supported and empowered to excel in their roles, making every day both challenging and rewarding.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Buyer in Coventry
✨Get Savvy with Industry Perks
Join procurement and purchasing forums or groups where pros hang out, like CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply). They'll share the inside scoop on job openings that might not show up on traditional job boards!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Consider creating a portfolio that outlines your achievements in procurement, like cost-saving initiatives or supplier management strategies. Having tangible evidence of your skills can really set you apart when applying to companies like AP Racing Ltd.
✨Tap into Your Network
Leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in procurement—follow relevant hashtags, join groups, and engage in discussions. This is a great way to get noticed by potential employers before they even post a job!
✨Keep Your Eyes on Job Boards
With full-time positions, timing can be everything. Set alerts on job boards specifically for procurement roles. Don't wait for a job posting to close; apply through our website as soon as you see a fit—being proactive can give you the edge!
We think you need these skills to ace Buyer in Coventry
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Procurement Know-How:When you're crafting your CV, make sure to highlight any procurement-specific skills you've got. Talk about your experience with supplier negotiations, cost analysis, or inventory management. If you’ve used software like SAP or Oracle, don’t forget to mention that too – it shows you know your way around the tech side of things!
Quantify Your Achievements:In procurement, numbers matter. Use your CV and cover letter to showcase any quantifiable achievements you've made in reducing costs or improving efficiencies. For example, mentioning that you helped save 20% on purchasing costs last year is way more impressive than just saying you managed the budget!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to AP Racing Ltd:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to AP Racing Ltd. Research the company’s procurement strategy, mention how your skills align with their goals, and share your enthusiasm for contributing to their success. This personal touch can really set you apart from the crowd!
Professional Certs Can Go a Long Way:If you've got any procurement-related certifications, such as CIPS or APICS, make sure they're front and centre on your CV. These qualifications show you're serious about your career in procurement and are committed to continuous learning. It’s a great way to signal your expertise and dedication to potential employers like AP Racing Ltd.
How to prepare for a job interview at AP Racing Ltd
✨Show Off Your Negotiation Skills
In procurement, strong negotiation skills are key. Be ready to share examples of past negotiations where you've successfully saved costs or improved supplier terms. We want to hear how you approached those situations and the strategies you used to achieve positive outcomes!
✨Know Your Tools
Make sure you’re familiar with procurement software and tools commonly used in the industry, such as SAP Ariba or Coupa. Come prepared to discuss any experiences you've had with these tools or similar platforms, as we need someone who can hit the ground running at AP Racing Ltd!
✨Understand Market Trends
As a procurement professional, being aware of market trends can set you apart. Brush up on recent developments in supply chain management or procurement best practices and think about how they could impact your role at AP Racing Ltd. Bringing a current perspective will show your enthusiasm for the industry.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Player Attitude
A full-time position means you'll be working closely with various teams. Be prepared to discuss how you collaborate with others, manage conflicts, and build relationships with stakeholders. Sharing anecdotes about past teamwork experiences will highlight your ability to fit into AP Racing Ltd's culture.
