At a Glance
- Tasks: Negotiate with suppliers and manage contracts to ensure smooth operations.
- Company: Join Arconic, a leader in sustainable solutions and innovative technologies.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, development opportunities, and a collaborative workplace.
- Other info: Located in Birmingham with great transport links and excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Make an impact in procurement while working in a dynamic and inclusive environment.
- Qualifications: 3+ years in procurement or negotiation, strong communication skills, and a proactive attitude.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Arconic is currently searching for a Procurement Operations Strategic Buyer to join our Procurement Team based in Kitts Green, Birmingham. At Arconic, we take pride in our work and our innovative products and technologies that advance sustainable solutions for a better world. We strive to create a safe, inclusive, and collaborative workplace with competitive benefits, development opportunities, and a culture that values and rewards employees.
Responsibilities
- Supplier negotiation using a number of different negotiation techniques including individual supplier meetings, e-auctions and supplier summits, among others.
- Management and benchmark existing suppliers, working with the Site Engineers / Maintenance Engineers to identify possible alternative products/sources of supply, and arranging site trials in conjunction with Engineers.
- Ensure contracts, NDAs are in place for all suppliers and, together with the Procurement Manager and SPAs, negotiate renewals prior to expiry to ensure continuity of supply.
- Ensure all agreements have legal approval and are done accordingly to the SOP, and maintain MSIS and the contract database updated.
- Work on cost savings initiatives and manage the savings database to record all savings achieved.
- Health & Safety is an important part of the work that is carried out on site. All contractors are required to have a pre‑qualification questionnaire; liaise with the EHS and PQQ team to ensure compliance of this process.
- Complete the monthly self‑assessment ASAT tool in conjunction with the Procurement Manager in a timely manner and in accordance with the requirements.
- Attend daily engineering meetings and other meetings with suppliers and SPAs.
- Assist the different teams to solve finance and requisition queries.
- Support the Procurement Manager with different tasks such as reporting, preparation of events like Kaizen and supplier summits and other admin tasks.
- Responsible for implementing and following procedures.
- Negotiate terms and conditions between suppliers and the internal legal team.
- General administrative duties associated with the running of a procurement office.
- Travel may be required.
- Manage different types of projects in a variety of categories from hard services, HR, soft services, MRO, among others.
Qualifications
- Minimum of 3 years’ experience in a procurement role or related business negotiation experience.
- Excellent verbal and written communication; also good presentation skills.
- Excellent customer service.
- Hold a CIPS part or fully qualified credential (preferred but not mandatory).
- Hold a business administration, economics, supply chain or other business‑related degree.
- Advanced Microsoft Excel and Word skills.
- Ability to work and think in a pressurized, ever‑changing environment; essential to meet tight deadlines.
- Proven decision‑making and project and contract management experience.
- Pro‑active attitude.
- Excellent team player.
About The Team & Location
The team is based at Kitts Green, situated in the heart of Birmingham and approximately a 10‑minute drive from Birmingham International Airport. The location also has good transport links to the M42/M6 motorways, and Lea Hall train station is a 10‑minute walk offering regular trains to Birmingham City Centre. Our plant is a forward‑looking manufacturing facility with a long tradition of inclusion, teamwork and community action.
Procurement Operations Strategic Buyer in Birmingham employer: Arconic
Arconic is an exceptional employer that fosters a safe, inclusive, and collaborative work environment in Kitts Green, Birmingham. With competitive benefits and ample opportunities for professional development, employees are encouraged to grow and thrive within the company. The team's commitment to innovation and sustainability, combined with a strong focus on teamwork and community action, makes Arconic a rewarding place to build a meaningful career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Operations Strategic Buyer in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the procurement field, especially those at Arconic. Use LinkedIn to connect and engage with them; you never know who might give you a heads-up about job openings or even refer you directly.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Arconic's values and recent projects. Show us that you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate how your skills in supplier negotiation and project management can contribute to our innovative solutions.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation techniques! Since this role involves a lot of supplier interactions, brush up on your skills. Role-play scenarios with friends or colleagues to build confidence and refine your approach.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows us you’re genuinely interested in being part of our team at Arconic.
We think you need these skills to ace Procurement Operations Strategic Buyer in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Procurement Operations Strategic Buyer role. Highlight relevant experience, especially in supplier negotiation and project management, to show us you’re the right fit for our team.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you’re passionate about procurement and how your skills align with our values at Arconic. Be genuine and let your personality shine through!
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use specific examples of cost savings initiatives or successful negotiations to demonstrate your impact in previous roles.
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 keep track of it as we review candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Arconic
✨Know Your Procurement Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your procurement knowledge, especially around negotiation techniques and supplier management. Familiarise yourself with the specific tools and methods mentioned in the job description, like e-auctions and supplier summits, so you can speak confidently about your experience.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since excellent verbal and written communication is key for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Prepare examples of how you've successfully communicated with suppliers or internal teams in the past, and be ready to demonstrate your presentation skills during the interview.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask you to solve hypothetical procurement challenges. Think about past experiences where you had to negotiate terms or manage supplier relationships, and be prepared to discuss your thought process and decision-making strategies.
✨Highlight Your Team Player Attitude
This role requires collaboration with various teams, so be sure to emphasise your ability to work well with others. Share stories that illustrate your teamwork skills, especially in high-pressure situations, to show that you're a proactive and supportive colleague.
