At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement and supplier management in a fast-growing engineering consultancy.
- Company: Dynamic start-up specialising in electrification technologies for various sectors.
- Benefits: Flexible remote work, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on continuous improvement and operational excellence.
- Why this job: Join a team driving innovation in battery systems and electrification solutions.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in purchasing or supply chain roles, preferably in engineering or manufacturing.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
Role Purpose
The Purchasing Manager will lead procurement, supplier management, and supply chain coordination activities within a fast-growing engineering consultancy specialising in battery systems, charging systems, and electrification technologies for the marine, industrial, automotive, and defence sectors. The role is responsible for establishing and managing scalable purchasing processes to support engineering development, prototype builds, and low-to-medium volume production manufacturing of advanced battery packs (60V to 800V), charging systems, and associated electronics. Working within a dynamic start‑up environment, the Purchasing Manager will play a key role in ensuring supply continuity, cost control, supplier quality, and operational readiness as the business grows. The successful candidate will work closely with engineering, operations, manufacturing, and programme teams to support the delivery of innovative electrification solutions from concept through production.
Key Responsibilities
- Procurement & Supply Chain Management
- Lead all purchasing and procurement activities across engineering, prototype, and production programmes.
- Source and manage suppliers for battery cells, electronics, HV components, mechanical parts, charging systems, manufacturing consumables, and engineering services.
- Develop and implement purchasing strategies aligned with business growth, operational needs, and programme delivery requirements.
- Establish procurement processes, supplier approval systems, and purchasing controls suitable for a growing organisation.
- Ensure timely procurement of materials and components to support engineering projects and manufacturing schedules.
- Identify, evaluate, negotiate, and onboard suppliers capable of supporting low‑volume/high‑mix electrification programmes.
- Develop strong supplier relationships to ensure quality, delivery performance, flexibility, and cost competitiveness.
- Monitor supplier performance through KPIs including delivery, quality, responsiveness, and cost management.
- Support supplier audits, supplier development activities, and risk mitigation strategies.
- Work closely with suppliers to resolve shortages, quality issues, and technical supply challenges.
- Cost Management & Commercial Support
- Negotiate pricing, commercial agreements, lead times, and contractual terms with suppliers.
- Support cost reduction and value engineering initiatives in collaboration with engineering and manufacturing teams.
- Monitor purchasing budgets and support financial forecasting activities.
- Analyse market trends, material availability, and supply risks affecting battery and electrification supply chains.
- Support quotation and programme costing activities by providing accurate procurement input.
- Engineering & Manufacturing Support
- Work closely with engineering teams to support prototype builds and new product introduction (NPI) activities.
- Support BOM management, engineering change control, and configuration management processes.
- Coordinate procurement activities for prototype, pilot, and production manufacturing phases.
- Ensure materials traceability and documentation requirements are maintained where applicable.
- Support manufacturing continuity through effective inventory and supply planning.
- Inventory & Logistics Coordination
- Support inventory management and stock control activities to balance availability with cash flow considerations.
- Coordinate inbound logistics and supplier deliveries.
- Monitor material shortages and proactively manage supply chain risks.
- Assist with implementation of ERP/MRP systems and procurement tracking processes.
- Quality & Compliance
- Ensure purchased components and materials meet quality, technical, and regulatory requirements.
- Support supplier quality management activities in collaboration with quality and engineering teams.
- Maintain purchasing records, supplier documentation, and compliance information.
- Support procurement compliance activities relating to industry regulations, export controls, and customer requirements.
- Process Development & Continuous Improvement
- Develop and improve procurement processes, systems, and reporting structures.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives across purchasing and supply chain operations.
- Support operational scalability and process standardisation as the business grows.
Qualifications, Experience and Skills Required
- Degree, HNC/HND, CIPS qualification, or equivalent experience in Purchasing, Supply Chain, Engineering, Operations, or related discipline.
- Minimum 5+ years’ experience in purchasing, procurement, or supply chain roles within engineering or manufacturing industries.
- Experience sourcing technical or electro‑mechanical components.
- Strong commercial negotiation and supplier management skills.
- Experience working within prototype or low‑volume manufacturing environments.
- Good understanding of supply chain management and inventory control principles.
- Strong organisational and project coordination skills.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management capability.
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
- Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
Qualifications, Experience and Skills Preferred
- Experience within battery systems, EV, electrification, automotive, marine, aerospace, defence, or industrial sectors.
- Familiarity with lithium‑ion battery supply chains and HV electrical components.
- Experience sourcing battery cells, electronics, PCBAs, wiring harnesses, connectors, or charging system components.
- Experience working within start‑up or rapidly scaling technology businesses.
- Knowledge of ERP/MRP systems and procurement software.
- Understanding of supplier quality processes and manufacturing traceability requirements.
- Experience with international suppliers and global supply chains.
- Familiarity with import/export requirements and supply chain compliance.
Role specific knowledge
- Procurement and supply chain management principles
- Battery pack and electrification component supply chains
- Lithium‑ion battery technologies and associated components
- High‑voltage electrical systems and supporting hardware
- Prototype and low‑volume manufacturing operations
- BOM management and engineering change processes
- Supplier qualification and supplier performance management
- Inventory control and material planning
- Commercial negotiation and cost management
- Supply chain risk management and continuity planning
- Manufacturing traceability and quality requirements
- ERP/MRP systems and procurement reporting
Personal Attributes
- Commercially aware with strong negotiation capability
- Highly organised and detail‑oriented
- Proactive and solutions‑focused mindset
- Adaptable and comfortable operating in a fast‑paced start‑up environment
- Strong interpersonal and relationship‑building skills
- Collaborative and team‑oriented approach
- Self‑motivated with strong sense of ownership and accountability
- Calm under pressure with ability to manage changing priorities
- Analytical thinker with strong problem‑solving capability
- Passion for electrification, engineering innovation, and operational excellence
Location and Travel
You must be eligible to work in the UK and have no restrictions for world‑wide travel. We are unable to offer Visa sponsorship. This role is based at our Head Office in the UK, with flexibility for remote working up to 2 days a week. Working hours are 09h00 to 17h00, 5 days a week, however some travel is expected, and flexible working patterns are essential to the role.
Equal Opportunities Statement
We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace and welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, gender identity, race, religion, sexual orientation, or background.
Purchasing Manager employer: Breath HR
As a Purchasing Manager at our innovative engineering consultancy, you will thrive in a dynamic start-up environment that champions creativity and collaboration. We offer a supportive work culture with flexible remote working options, competitive benefits, and ample opportunities for professional growth in the rapidly evolving electrification sector. Join us to make a meaningful impact on cutting-edge projects while enjoying a balanced work-life experience.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Purchasing Manager
✨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 Breath HR.
✨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 Purchasing Manager
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 Breath HR:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Breath HR. 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 Breath HR.
How to prepare for a job interview at Breath HR
✨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 Breath HR!
✨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 Breath HR. 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 Breath HR's culture.
