At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Purchasing team to manage procurement and develop strong supplier partnerships.
- Company: We are a leading engineering firm focused on quality products and services.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, 28 days leave, and a range of wellbeing initiatives.
- Other info: Must obtain UK Security Clearance; great learning and development support available.
- Why this job: This role offers growth opportunities and a chance to drive continuous improvement in supply chains.
- Qualifications: Experience in engineering procurement and strong analytical skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Senior Buyer 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.
Senior Buyers 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.
Essential
Skills & Experience
- 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
Senior Buyer 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
What We Will Offer The Senior Buyer
- 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
Buyer in Horsham employer: Chess Dynamics
Chess Dynamics is an exceptional employer located in Horsham, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration in the defence technology sector. Employees benefit from continuous professional development opportunities and are encouraged to contribute to cutting-edge projects that have a global impact. Join us to be part of a team that values engineering excellence and teamwork, making a meaningful difference in critical systems worldwide.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Buyer in Horsham
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in supply chain management, especially within the engineering sector. This knowledge will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to staying updated in a rapidly evolving field.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the supply chain and procurement industry. Attend relevant events or join online forums where you can connect with others who may provide insights or even refer you to opportunities at StudySmarter.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've driven continuous improvement in previous roles. Highlighting your analytical mindset and problem-solving skills will resonate well with our team’s focus on performance enhancement.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready to showcase your negotiation skills through role-play scenarios or case studies during the interview process. This practical demonstration can set you apart from other candidates and show us your capability to achieve the best outcomes with suppliers.
We think you need these skills to ace Buyer in Horsham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in procurement and supply chain management. Emphasise any previous roles dealing with engineering manufacturers and your familiarity with MRP/ERP systems.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of the role and how your skills align with the company's values of Teamwork, Integrity, Excellence, and Courage. Mention specific examples of how you've driven continuous improvement in past roles.
Highlight Analytical Skills:Since the role requires strong analytical skills, provide examples in your application of how you've used data to make informed decisions or improve supplier performance. This could include any experience with risk assessments or supplier audits.
Showcase Communication Skills:Given the importance of communication in this role, ensure your application reflects your excellent interpersonal and written skills. You might want to include instances where you've successfully negotiated with suppliers or collaborated cross-functionally.
How to prepare for a job interview at Chess Dynamics
✨Understand the Supply Chain Strategy
Make sure you have a solid grasp of the company's supply chain strategy. Familiarise yourself with their approach to risk management and how they develop supplier partnerships. This will show your potential employer that you're aligned with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
As a Buyer, strong analytical skills are crucial. Be prepared to discuss your experience with MRP/ERP systems and how you've used data to make informed decisions in previous roles. Highlight specific examples where your analytical mindset led to successful outcomes.
✨Demonstrate Negotiation Experience
Negotiation is key in this role. Prepare to share examples of past negotiations with suppliers, focusing on how you achieved the best price outcomes. Discuss any challenges you faced and how you overcame them to secure favourable terms.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Communication
This position requires collaboration across functions. Be ready to talk about your experiences working in integrated project management teams. Highlight your communication skills and how you've successfully liaised with different departments to achieve common goals.