At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage procurement for engineering suppliers and drive continuous improvement in the supply chain.
- Company: Join a dynamic team focused on teamwork, integrity, and excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, 28 days leave, and a matched pension plan.
- Other info: Hybrid work options and a supportive environment for career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by optimising supply chains and building strong partnerships.
- Qualifications: Strong analytical skills and experience in technical buying are essential.
Role Purpose: Joining the Purchasing team and reporting to Supply Chain & Continuous Improvement Manager, the Senior Buyer will be responsible for executing the supply chain strategy within an Integrated Portfolio Team (IPT), developing and driving strong risk mitigated supply partnerships, to ensure the delivery of quality products and services on plan, at the lowest cost of ownership.
Key Responsibilities:
- Manage the procurement activities for an engineering-based supplier portfolio.
- Develop and drive strong supply partnerships identifying opportunities to climb the value chain and maximise value add to deliver a high performing agile supply chain network.
- Drive a culture of continuous improvement in all that we do.
- Collaborating with Category Managers on business reviews, examining performance, and setting improvement goals to meet functional objectives. Performing regular risk assessments and supplier audits, validating suppliers and their investments to ensure that our combined business directions remain convergent.
- Deploy problem solving techniques to drive a step change in supplier performance and resolve issues at a root cause level.
- Identify and develop new supply sources capable of meeting our demanding specifications and commercial needs.
- Facilitate the introduction of new parts, adapting the supply chain to support emerging needs.
- Prepare Request for Information (RFI) and Request for Quotation (RFQ) documentation.
- Execute change, managing the process of engagement, disengagement and change management.
Skills & Experience
Essential
- Strong analytically with good IT skills and a working knowledge of using MRP/ERP systems.
- Experienced in technical, engineering and machined part buying with the ability to read and interpret technical drawings and understand associated manufacturing processes.
Desirable
- Experience of working within integrated project management teams.
- Forming and constructing contracts.
- CIPS Level 4 or above.
Personal Attributes
- Demonstrates our company values of Teamwork, Integrity, Excellence and Courage.
- A team player able to liaise and work collaboratively cross functionally.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal and written skills.
- Organised, with a high attention to detail.
- Proactive, able to plan, organise, execute, and monitor performance across the supply chain, driving for results.
- Resilient, agile, and adaptable to changing priorities. Able to operate under pressure, multi task and deliver to exacting timescales.
Work life balance:
- 37.5 hour working week, Lunchtime finishes on a Friday.
- Hybrid / flexible working arrangements.
- 28 days annual leave, Christmas closure, Holiday purchasing scheme.
Benefits:
- Group pension plan – matched contributions up to 5%.
- Income protection scheme and Employee Assistance Programme.
- Employee Assistance Programme gives you and your family access to 4 key services including remote GP service, second opinion, mental health pathway service and physiotherapy consultations.
- Life assurance policy, including bereavement counselling and probate helpline.
Security Clearance Requirements: Due to the nature of our business, our staff need to be able to obtain UK Security Clearance as a mandated requirement. Therefore, if successful, you will need to provide proof of identity, employment history and right to work in the UK, along with proof of UK residency for at least five years.
Senior Buyer in Horsham employer: Chess Dynamics Ltd
As a Senior Buyer in our dynamic Purchasing team, you will thrive in a culture that prioritises teamwork, integrity, and excellence. We offer a supportive work environment with flexible working arrangements, a generous benefits package including a matched pension plan and comprehensive employee assistance programmes, and ample opportunities for professional growth within an innovative supply chain network. Join us to make a meaningful impact while enjoying a healthy work-life balance in a role that challenges and rewards you.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Buyer in Horsham
✨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 Chess Dynamics Ltd.
✨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 Senior Buyer in Horsham
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 Chess Dynamics Ltd:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Chess Dynamics Ltd. 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 Chess Dynamics Ltd.
How to prepare for a job interview at Chess Dynamics Ltd
✨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 Chess Dynamics Ltd!
✨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 Chess Dynamics Ltd. 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 Chess Dynamics Ltd's culture.