At a Glance
- Tasks: Source and manage suppliers for metal powders and critical materials.
- Company: Forward-thinking manufacturer in the advanced materials sector.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, excellent benefits, and flexible working options.
- Why this job: Join a cutting-edge team and make a real impact in procurement.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement within manufacturing, especially with metals or powders.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for continuous improvement and career growth.
The predicted salary is between 43000 - 67000 £ per year.
A forward-thinking, technology-led manufacturer in the advanced materials sector is seeking a Technical Buyer to oversee the procurement of metal powders, critical production materials, and globally sourced components. This role plays a vital part in ensuring a secure, cost-effective and compliant supply chain, supporting both day-to-day operations and long-term production strategy.
Ideal for someone with procurement experience in a manufacturing setting, particularly involving metals, powders or advanced components, the position requires strong commercial acumen, supplier management capability and the ability to coordinate international logistics within a fast-paced environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Source and onboard suppliers for powders and production-critical inputs
- Negotiate commercial terms and maintain supplier pricing and performance data
- Support the development of dual-sourcing strategies and risk mitigation plans
- Translate production schedules and MRP signals into timely purchase orders
- Maintain accurate ERP data on lead times, costs and inventory parameters
- Forecast demand in collaboration with planning and sales functions
- Monitor material, freight and inventory costs and identify efficiencies
- Maintain supplier risk registers and ensure data accuracy across systems
- Provide reporting dashboards to support production and commercial decisions
- Oversee inbound shipments and international logistics, including customs compliance
- Supervise goods-in processes, ensuring accurate receipt, traceability and stock control
- Optimise packaging and documentation for export, aligning with client and regulatory requirements
- Lead and support the Goods-In and Inventory function
- Develop SOPs across procurement, inventory and logistics operations
- Drive continuous improvement and cross-functional alignment with Engineering, Quality and Finance
Candidate Profile
Essential Experience and Skills
- Procurement or supply chain experience within a manufacturing environment
- Background in powders, metals or technical materials (preferred)
- ERP or MRP proficiency and strong data management discipline
- Understanding of incoterms, customs and international logistics
- Experience with traceability, batch control and quality systems
- Confident in Excel; familiarity with Power BI and CIPS advantageous
Key Attributes
- Proactive with a strong ownership mindset
- Analytical and commercially aware
- Collaborative and process-focused
- Detail-oriented with a strong safety ethos
This is a high-impact role within a cutting-edge manufacturing environment. If you're looking to apply your procurement expertise in a technical and fast-moving setting, we encourage you to apply.
Technical Buyer employer: Cranleigh Scientific
Contact Detail:
Cranleigh Scientific Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Technical Buyer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts on LinkedIn or attend local events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its products. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in their mission and how you can contribute to their success.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Technical Buyer, you’ll need to demonstrate your ability to negotiate terms effectively. Role-play with a friend or use online resources to sharpen those skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Technical Buyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Technical Buyer role. Highlight your procurement experience, especially in manufacturing and with metals or powders. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your background makes you the perfect fit. We love seeing enthusiasm and a clear connection to our mission.
Showcase Relevant Skills: Don’t forget to showcase your skills in ERP systems, data management, and international logistics. We’re keen on candidates who can demonstrate their analytical abilities and commercial awareness, so make sure these come through in your application.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re proactive, which we love!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cranleigh Scientific
✨Know Your Materials
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of metal powders and critical materials. Understand the properties, applications, and sourcing challenges associated with these materials. This will not only show your expertise but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Master the Numbers
Since this role involves a lot of data management, be prepared to discuss your experience with ERP systems and how you've used data to make procurement decisions. Practise explaining complex data in simple terms, as this will showcase your analytical skills and commercial awareness.
✨Supplier Management Savvy
Think about your past experiences with supplier negotiations and management. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully onboarded suppliers or improved supplier performance. This will highlight your capability in maintaining strong supplier relationships.
✨Logistics Know-How
Familiarise yourself with international logistics and customs compliance, as these are crucial for the role. Prepare to discuss any relevant experiences you have in managing inbound shipments and ensuring traceability. This will show that you can handle the complexities of global sourcing.