Procurement Specialist / Lead Buyer (Engineering)

Procurement Specialist / Lead Buyer (Engineering)

Full-Time 40000 - 50000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
ARCA

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Source high-quality materials, negotiate contracts, and manage supplier performance.
  • Company: Fast-growing engineering and tech company reshaping the simulator industry.
  • Benefits: Hybrid work model, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Other info: Promote sustainable practices and enjoy a collaborative work environment.
  • Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact in a pioneering industry.
  • Qualifications: Degree in Business or Supply Chain Management; experience in procurement preferred.

The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.

ARCA is working with a pioneering and fast-growing engineering and technology company that is reshaping the high-performance simulator industry. We are seeking a Buyer to join their procurement team. This is a key role supporting engineering and production teams by sourcing high-quality materials and components, negotiating supplier contracts, and ensuring a smooth procurement process aligned with the company’s rapid expansion plans.

Key Responsibilities / Skills:

  • Procurement Operations & Supply Chain Management
  • Negotiate contracts, terms, and prices with suppliers to ensure the best possible conditions for the company aligned with supply chain strategy.
  • Management of high risk and/or strategic procurement projects to deliver works, goods, and services, which meet or exceed customer requirements.
  • Identify, evaluate, and select suppliers that meet the company's standards for quality, cost, and reliability.
  • Develop and implement procurement strategies relating to categories that are managed by Buyer and that align with company goals and project timelines.
  • Manage and monitor supplier performance to ensure compliance with contractual obligations and performance metrics.
  • Collaborate with the engineering and production teams to understand their material and component requirements.
  • Conduct market research to stay informed about industry trends and emerging technologies that could impact supply chain strategies.
  • Stay up to date on commodity trends, currency fluctuations, tariffs, and international trade policies that could influence purchasing decisions.
  • Manage the supplier forecast, delivery schedules and re-schedule requests with suppliers in a timely manner to minimise impact on production schedules.
  • Responsible for reviewing and approving ECOs and setting up items in Business System.
  • Support in the regular review and improvements of procurement policies, procedures, controls and business systems across the organisation.
  • Contribute to the continuous review of current supply chain agreements vs new product needs to optimise spend and quality.
  • Ensure procurement activities comply with legal, regulatory, and ethical standards.
  • Promote sustainable procurement practices and alignment with corporate social responsibility goals.
  • Maintain accurate and auditable procurement documentation.
  • Financial & Risk Management
  • Support in ensuring that the material purchasing requirements in the forward forecasts, ensure we are getting value for money from our supply chain, and implementing procurement initiatives to drive cost savings for the business against project budgets.
  • Oversee critical suppliers credentials and risk levels.
  • Support in the continuous improvement of cost management optimisation.
  • Implement risk management practices to minimise exposure to supply chain disruptions, compliance breaches, or reputational damage.

Desirable:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Engineering or equivalent experience.
  • CIPS qualification.
  • Familiarity with MS Dynamics and international logistics.

Please apply via the link for immediate consideration.

Procurement Specialist / Lead Buyer (Engineering) employer: ARCA

ARCA is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of Bristol where innovation meets engineering excellence. With a strong focus on employee growth and development, we provide opportunities for professional advancement while fostering a collaborative culture that values sustainability and ethical practices. Join us to be part of a pioneering team that is not only reshaping the simulator industry but also committed to making a positive impact in the community.

ARCA

Contact Details:

ARCA Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Procurement Specialist / Lead Buyer (Engineering)

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 ARCA.

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 Procurement Specialist / Lead Buyer (Engineering)

Procurement Operations
Supply Chain Management
Contract Negotiation
Supplier Evaluation
Procurement Strategy Development
Supplier Performance Management
Market Research

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 ARCA:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to ARCA. 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 ARCA.

How to prepare for a job interview at ARCA

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 ARCA!

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 ARCA. 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 ARCA's culture.