At a Glance
- Tasks: Source and manage tooling for exciting new product launches.
- Company: Join a dynamic team at Artifex Interior Systems Limited.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive culture, and opportunities for growth.
- Other info: Flexible work environment with a focus on continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on product innovation and supplier relationships.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement and strong negotiation skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
Main purpose of the job
The Tooling Procurement Specialist plays a vital role in supporting successful product launches through the effective sourcing, procurement, and management of tooling and related equipment.
The role is responsible for ensuring tooling requirements are delivered on time, to specification, and at the most competitive total cost, while maintaining the highest standards of quality and supplier performance.
This is a highly visible role with significant influence on tooling spend, supplier selection, new product introduction (NPI) activities and will significantly influence overall business performance.
The successful candidate will work closely with internal stakeholders and external supplier partners to deliver value, innovation, and operational excellence.
- Main missions and results
- Source and procure tooling, fixtures, jigs, gauges, and associated equipment in line with business requirements.
- Lead supplier selection, quotation, negotiation, and contract activities for tooling requirements.
- Deliver cost savings and value improvement initiatives while maintaining quality and service standards.
- Support budget management and spend analysis for tooling categories.
- Ensure procurement activities comply with company policies and procedures.
- Supplier Relationship Management
- Develop and maintain effective relationships with tooling suppliers and strategic partners.
- Monitor supplier performance against quality, cost, delivery, and service KPIs.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives with suppliers.
- Manage supplier risks and implement mitigation plans where required
- New Product Introduction (NPI)
- Collaborate with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, and Programme teams to support new product launches.
- Ensure tooling requirements are identified, sourced, and delivered to project timelines.
- Participate in cross-functional project meetings and provide procurement expertise.
- Support the successful industrialisation of new products through timely tooling availability.
- Stakeholder Engagement
- Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders across commercial, engineering, manufacturing, quality, and project teams.
- Understand business needs and translate these into sourcing and supplier strategies.
- Provide regular updates on project progress, risks, and opportunities.
- Challenge and influence stakeholders to optimise procurement outcomes
- Continuous Improvement
- Identify opportunities to improve procurement processes, supplier performance, and tooling lifecycle management.
- Support digitalisation and process improvement initiatives.
- Contribute to procurement strategy development.
- Share market intelligence and industry best practices.
- Preferred skills and experience
Essential
- Experience working in a commercial environment on complex tooling requirements.
- Strong negotiation and commercial awareness.
- Experience managing supplier relationships and performance.
- Ability to work effectively in a cross-functional manufacturing environment.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving capability.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word and Powerpoint.
Desirable
- Understanding of manufacturing processes and product development cycles.
- Experience supporting New Product Introduction (NPI) projects.
- Knowledge of strategic sourcing and category management methodologies.
- Awareness of (Tc PCM) Teamcentre Product Cost Management for costing tooling and equipment.
- Personal Attributes
- Highly organised with strong attention to detail.
- Proactive and self-motivated.
- Strong relationship builder with excellent interpersonal skills.
- Results-oriented with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
- Commercially minded with a continuous improvement focus.
Note: this is not an exhaustive list.
All employees are expected to show flexibility and continued self-development to meet the ever-changing needs of the business.
All job descriptions / vacancy notices will be subject to continual development.
Internal closing date
1st September 2026
Please note if you apply after this date that you may still be progressed, but depending on the volume of applications we are unable to guarantee the ability to accommodate.
Artifex Interior Systems Limited is an equal opportunities employer committed to eliminating discrimination and fostering an inclusive culture for all.
Our aim is that our employees will be truly representative of all sections of society, that they feel respected and able to perform at their best.
We are committed to creating an environment in which individual differences and the contributions of all our colleagues is recognised.
Interested?
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now'
If this job isn't quite what you are looking for but you are looking for a new position within Automotive, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career.
Tooling Procurement Specialist in Birmingham employer: Artifex Interior Systems Limited
Artifex Interior Systems Limited is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Scunthorpe where safety and efficiency are paramount. With a strong focus on employee development and continuous improvement, we provide our staff with opportunities to grow their skills and advance their careers while working collaboratively in a supportive, unionized setting. Join us to be part of a team that values your contributions and prioritises a culture of excellence.
Contact Details:
Artifex Interior Systems Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Tooling Procurement Specialist in Birmingham
✨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 Artifex Interior Systems Limited.
✨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 Tooling Procurement Specialist in Birmingham
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 Artifex Interior Systems Limited:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Artifex Interior Systems Limited. 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 Artifex Interior Systems Limited.
How to prepare for a job interview at Artifex Interior Systems Limited
✨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 Artifex Interior Systems Limited!
✨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 Artifex Interior Systems Limited. 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 Artifex Interior Systems Limited's culture.