Buyer in Birmingham

Be responsible for a commodity group within the direct procurement function, contributing to the delivery of cost effective and reliable supply solutions across customer programmes. Working within established procurement processes and under guidance from experienced colleagues, you will develop your understanding of supplier management, commercial evaluation and sourcing strategy. The role provides exposure to working with suppliers, internal teams and programme stakeholders, supporting the delivery of components through pre series and series production while building foundational procurement and commercial skills.

Main missions and results

• Procurement Support & Sourcing Activities
  • Deliver sourcing activities, gaining hands‑on experience in how procurement supports customer programmes from initial sourcing through to delivery.
  • Assist with supplier selection and evaluation activities, developing your understanding of how commercial and technical decisions are made.
  • Contribute to sourcing strategy execution, learning how procurement decisions align with wider business and programme objectives.
  • Support the management of supplier agreements, building awareness of how contracts underpin successful supply relationships.
• Commercial & Cost Awareness
  • Deliver cost analysis activities, developing an understanding of key cost drivers and supplier pricing structures.
  • Track spend and cost performance, learning how procurement contributes to overall business efficiency.
  • Contribute to value analysis and value engineering (VA/VE) activities, gaining experience in identifying cost improvement opportunities.
  • Build understanding of how sourcing decisions impact cost, quality and delivery, and how these balance in real programme environments.
• Supplier Performance & Data Management
  • Support monitoring of supplier performance across cost, quality and delivery, understanding how supplier performance drives programme success.
  • Assist in maintaining accurate procurement data and reports, developing strong attention to detail and data management skills.
  • Support resolution of supply issues by gathering information and escalating concerns, gaining exposure to problem‑solving in a live environment.
  • Contribute to reporting activities, helping provide clear and reliable information to support decision‑making.
• Cross‑Functional Collaboration & Learning
  • Work collaboratively with internal teams (Engineering, Quality, Finance, Programmes) to understand how procurement integrates across the business.
  • Build effective working relationships with suppliers and stakeholders, developing strong communication and collaboration skills.
  • Participate in discussions and meetings, building confidence in sharing ideas and understanding different perspectives.
  • Actively seek guidance, feedback, and learning opportunities to develop your procurement knowledge and professional capability.
• Continuous Improvement & Development
  • Contribute to continuous improvement activities within procurement, learning how processes evolve to improve efficiency and performance.
  • Support identification of opportunities to improve ways of working, including data accuracy and supplier performance.
  • Demonstrate curiosity and a willingness to learn new tools, systems and procurement approaches.
  • Take an active role in developing your own skills and understanding, building a strong foundation for future progression within procurement.

Preferred Skills And Experience

• Degree or equivalent experience in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering or a related discipline (or working towards) – preferred but not essential.
• Some exposure to procurement, supply chain or commercial environments would be beneficial (placements, internships, or early career roles).
• Basic understanding of commercial principles, cost drivers or supplier relationships.
• Strong organisational skills with a structured and methodical approach to tasks.
• Good attention to detail and ability to work with data accurately.
• Willingness to learn and develop within a procurement or supply chain environment.
• Ability to communicate clearly and work effectively within a team.
• Positive, proactive attitude with an interest in continuous improvement and problem solving.

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.