At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage supplier relationships and ensure high-quality electronic components for innovative tech projects.
- Company: Join a cutting-edge technology company focused on wireless communication systems.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, flexible hours, and a generous pension plan.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities for personal development and global teamwork.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team driving innovation in critical RF communication.
- Qualifications: Experience in electronics sourcing and strong negotiation skills required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
About Us
DTC | A Codan Company is a technology company based in Whiteley, Hampshire.
We specialise in the research and development of wireless and critical RF communication systems.
Our Engineers work at the edge of what is scientifically possible, using every advancement in technology to our advantage.
Our technology is deployed by our customers to give them an unrivalled ability to wirelessly transmit data over long ranges with high reliability and security.
We are well established across multiple markets such as military and defence, uncrewed vehicles such as drones, police and government, and broadcast technology.
About The Role
The Senior Buyer is responsible for developing and managing a high‑performing supply base that delivers cost‑effective, high‑quality electronic components to support new product introduction and ongoing production.
The role ensures supplier performance, supply chain resilience, and compliance within a regulated manufacturing environment while driving strategic sourcing and continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead supplier selection, evaluation, commercial negotiation, and contract award for electronic components and associated commodities.
- Develop and execute category sourcing strategies aligned with business objectives, operational requirements, and market conditions.
- Build and maintain a high‑performing supply chain that delivers competitive cost, quality, delivery, responsiveness, and continuity of supply.
- Establish, monitor, and manage supplier performance through key performance indicators (KPIs), driving continuous improvement initiatives.
- Lead commercial negotiations and execute supply agreements with strategic suppliers and key vendors.
- Resolve supply chain issues relating to quality, delivery, shortages, and supplier performance through effective collaboration with internal stakeholders and suppliers.
- Conduct market analysis and supplier intelligence to identify new sourcing opportunities, emerging technologies, cost trends, and supply risks.
- Develop and implement risk mitigation strategies to strengthen supply chain resilience.
- Manage inventory policies within assigned categories to optimise stock levels, minimise liability, reduce lead times, and support uninterrupted production.
- Support Engineering and Business Development teams by providing market insight on component availability, technology developments, and design‑for‑manufacture considerations.
- Lead End‑of‑Life (EOL) and component obsolescence management activities, ensuring proactive continuity planning.
- Ensure procurement activities comply with ISO 9001 standards, company procedures, and applicable regulatory requirements.
- Support New Product Introduction (NPI) projects by securing appropriate suppliers and ensuring timely material availability.
- The Successful Candidate Will Ideally Have
- Proven experience in Contract Electronics Manufacturing (CEM) and/or electronic component sourcing and distribution.
- Strong knowledge of the global electronic components market, including supply chain trends, pricing, and availability.
- Demonstrated experience in supplier management, commercial negotiation, contract management, and strategic sourcing.
- Ability to interpret technical requirements and communicate effectively with suppliers.
- Strong stakeholder management skills with the ability to collaborate across Engineering, Production, Quality, and Supply Chain functions.
- Excellent analytical, commercial, negotiation, and problem‑solving skills.
- Experience working within a regulated manufacturing environment (e. g. aerospace, defence or industrial electronics).
- Knowledge of supplier quality systems, continuous improvement methodologies, and ISO 9001 standards is desirable.
- MCIPS qualification, or working towards CIPS accreditation, would be advantageous. Fully conversant with Microsoft applications.
- Additional Requirements
- Occasional work outside normal business hours may be required to support business and supplier needs.
- The successful candidate must be willing and eligible to obtain UK Security Clearance.
- Regular travel will be required to visit suppliers locally, nationally, and internationally.
Benefits And Culture
Our culture is supportive and collaborative.
You will be part of a multidisciplinary team where we share our ideas and innovation is strongly encouraged.
We are looking for someone with genuine passion for the job and a “can‑do” attitude.
- Our Employees Receive
- 25 days annual leave plus Bank holidays
- A generous pension plan, company match up to 9%
- Company bonus scheme
- Annual pay reviews (discretional)
- A personal approach to training and development
- Employee Assistance Program
- Income protection
- Life assurance
- Flexible core working hours.
- Open plan, modern office environment
Enjoy working as part of a global organisation with teams in Whiteley, Hampshire; USA; Denmark, Singapore; Dubai and Australia.
DTC | A Codan Company is committed to promoting a culture that supports personal development and embraces a diverse mix of employees throughout all levels of the organisation.
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Senior Buyer - Electronics employer: Codan Limited
Codan Limited is an excellent employer that fosters a collaborative culture, encouraging innovation and teamwork among its employees. With benefits such as 25 days of annual leave, a pension plan, and flexible working hours, the company prioritises employee well-being and work-life balance. Additionally, there are ample opportunities for professional growth within the sales support team, making it a rewarding place to advance your career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Buyer - Electronics
✨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 Codan 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 - Electronics
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 Codan Limited:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Codan 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 Codan Limited.
How to prepare for a job interview at Codan 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 Codan 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 Codan 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 Codan Limited's culture.
