At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Purchasing team to manage procurement and develop strong supply partnerships.
- Company: Dynamic company focused on innovation and continuous improvement in supply chain management.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive pension plan, wellbeing initiatives, and excellent learning opportunities.
- Other info: Join a supportive environment with great career growth and regular wellbeing activities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by driving high-performance supply chains and collaborating with diverse teams.
- Qualifications: Experience in project management and contract formation; CIPS Level 4 or above preferred.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
Joining the Purchasing team and reporting to the 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.
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‑added outcomes, delivering a high‑performing agile supply chain network.
- Drive a culture of continuous improvement in all activities.
- Collaborate with Category Managers on business reviews, examining performance and setting improvement goals to meet functional objectives.
- Perform regular risk assessments and supplier audits, validating suppliers and their investments to ensure alignment with combined business directions.
- Deploy problem‑solving techniques to drive step changes in supplier performance and resolve issues at the root‑cause level.
- Identify and develop new supply sources capable of meeting 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 initiatives, managing the process of engagement, disengagement and change management.
- Apply strong analytical skills with good IT proficiency and working knowledge of MRP/ERP systems.
- Apply technical, engineering, and machined part buying expertise, reading and interpreting technical drawings and understanding associated manufacturing processes.
Qualifications
- Experience working within integrated project management teams.
- Experience forming and constructing contracts.
- CIPS Level 4 or above qualification.
- Demonstration of company values: Teamwork, Integrity, Excellence, and Courage.
- 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.
- Ability to operate under pressure, multitask and deliver to exacting timescales.
Benefits
- Group pension plan – matched contributions up to 5%
- Income protection scheme
- Employee Assistance Programme (access to remote GP service, second opinion, mental health pathway, physiotherapy consultations)
- Life assurance policy, including bereavement counselling and probate helpline
- Company shares incentive plan and ‘save as you earn’ scheme
- Electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme
- Wellbeing initiatives, including access to a wellbeing app and mental health support for all employees
- Regular activities across sites to support and promote wellbeing (regular sports and social activities, gym membership discounts)
- Reward platform with high‑street discounts, employee benefits, health and wellbeing offerings
- Recruitment referral bonus scheme
- Excellent learning and development opportunities
- Great working environment with free, onsite car parking across all locations
Security Clearance Requirements
Due to the nature of our business, staff must obtain UK Security Clearance as a mandated requirement. 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 Limited
Chess Limited in Wilmslow is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With a vibrant work culture that encourages collaboration and innovation, employees benefit from private healthcare and flexible hybrid working arrangements, making it an ideal place for those seeking a rewarding career in sales. The company’s commitment to nurturing talent ensures that team members have ample opportunities for advancement while contributing to exciting projects in cutting-edge service areas like Cybersecurity and Data.
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 Limited.
✨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 Limited:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Chess Limited. 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 Limited.
How to prepare for a job interview at Chess Limited
✨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 Limited!
✨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 Limited. 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 Limited's culture.
