Buyer in Darwen

Job Type: Permanent, 37 hours per week, working a 4-day week over a 5-day operational week. Brookhouse Aerospace is a leading manufacturer of advanced composite and metal components for both civil and defence aerospace applications. With over 65 years of industry experience, we specialise in build-to-print aero-structures, offering complete solutions from nose to tail. Our capabilities span composites, metallic details, surface treatments, and complex assemblies. Based in Darwen, Lancashire, we are proud to be part of the Northwest Aerospace Cluster, delivering high-quality engineering with agility, precision, and a customer-focused approach.

The Role: We are looking for a Buyer to work onsite to manage sourcing, supplier relationships, and material procurement for our operations. You will maintain accurate MRP data, ensure efficient stock levels, support production with a reliable supply chain, and assist the Purchasing Manager with strategy, reporting, and continuous improvement. Strong negotiation, organisation, and supplier management skills are essential.

Key Responsibilities:

• Direct management of suppliers and implementation of the purchasing strategy plan
• Interpret business requirements from MRP based reports, obtain competitive quotations from suppliers where possible and place orders for the required quantities at the required dates.
• Ensure the MRP is kept up to date with all relevant information, bookings, lead times, cost codes, acknowledgement and due dates etc. so that the reports mentioned deliver correct results.
• Supplier order book management and scheduling.
• Liaising closely with production control/operations to ensure that a robust supply chain is in place to service Business requirements.
• Facilitate the development and management of the MRP / purchasing system
• Promote & implement LEAN principles and practices across the organisation.
• Prepare reports, KPIs and information as required
• Participate in internal/external meetings and supplier visits.
• Assist in development of programs for supplier improvement using Epicor scorecard process.
• Ensure stock levels are reduced where possible or maintained in line with business strategy and agreed targets.
• Support Purchasing Manager and Operations in developing and implementing a supply chain strategy that underpins the overall business plan.
• Uphold processes that ensure effective health, safety and environmental best practices as defined by the OHSE management system.
• Any other duties as are assigned from time to time that are commensurate with the level of the role.
• Help develop high quality, reliable and cost-efficient supplier base with flexibility toward meeting ever-changing requirements.
• Responsibility for placement of orders with suppliers for a broad scope of materials and services in a timely manner.
• Maintain awareness of military and blueprint specifications and manufacturing processes.
• Demonstrate high ethical standards and ensure compliance with the company’s code of business conduct.

Key processes in conjunction with Purchasing Manager:

• Commodity Sourcing Strategy
• Negotiation
• Subcontracting
• Create and maintain Agreements / purchase orders
• Create forecast towards suppliers

What We’re Looking For:

• Knowledge and experience in purchasing and supply chain
• Background in an engineering or manufacturing environment
• Computer literate and able to use MS Office applications and MRP systems
• Chartered member of professional body or working towards (desirable)
• Possession of a supply chain qualification (desirable)
• Background in Aerospace purchasing (desirable)

What we offer:

• 4-day working week providing a work-life balance