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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Negotiate with suppliers and manage contracts to ensure smooth procurement operations.
- Company: Join Arconic, a leader in innovative and sustainable solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, development opportunities, and a supportive workplace culture.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with opportunities for growth and travel.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in procurement while working on diverse projects.
- 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.
- 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
Procurement Operations Strategic Buyer employer: Arconic
Contact Detail:
Arconic Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Operations Strategic Buyer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the procurement field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have a lead or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Arconic and understanding their procurement processes. Tailor your answers to highlight your negotiation skills and experience with supplier management, as these are key for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your achievements! Be ready to discuss specific examples of cost savings initiatives you've led or projects you've managed. Numbers speak volumes, so bring those stats to the table.
✨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 you're serious about joining the team at Arconic.
We think you need these skills to ace Procurement Operations Strategic Buyer
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 contract 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. Don’t just repeat your CV; use this space to showcase your personality and enthusiasm!
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements, like cost savings or successful negotiations. We love seeing quantifiable results that 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 all the amazing candidates we want to meet!
How to prepare for a job interview at Arconic
✨Know Your Procurement Stuff
Make sure you brush up on procurement strategies and negotiation techniques. Familiarise yourself with concepts like e-auctions and supplier summits, as these are key to the role. Being able to discuss your past experiences in these areas will show that you're ready to hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since excellent verbal and written communication is crucial for this position, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Prepare examples of how you've successfully communicated with suppliers or internal teams in the past. This will demonstrate your ability to foster collaboration and maintain strong relationships.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific procurement challenges. Think about situations where you had to negotiate terms or manage supplier relationships. Having a few solid examples ready will help you stand out and show your problem-solving skills.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
As a team player, it's important to convey your collaborative mindset. Share instances where you've worked effectively within a team, especially in high-pressure situations. Highlighting your ability to support colleagues and contribute to group success will resonate well with the interviewers.