At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage purchasing of raw materials for automotive manufacturing and negotiate with suppliers.
- Company: Join SEWS-E, a leader in the automotive industry based in Staffordshire.
- Benefits: Permanent contract with competitive salary and opportunities for career growth.
- Other info: Work in a collaborative environment with a focus on quality and customer satisfaction.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team making impactful decisions in a global supply chain.
- Qualifications: Experience in the automotive sector and strong negotiation skills required.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
Type of contract: Permanent
Place of Work: SEWS-E HQ, Staffordshire, UK
Job Duties and Responsibilities
- To be responsible for the purchase of raw material used within SEWS-E’s manufacturing process.
- Responsible for various automotive commodities covering a global supply base, comprising direct and indirect purchases.
- Identify and investigate potential alternative suppliers where appropriate to reduce business risk.
- Evaluate bids, select, recommend suppliers as well as negotiate pricing, delivery, quality and service.
- Follow up on awards until completion of order.
- When necessary, negotiate and settle with suppliers regarding rejections, losses, return of materials etc.
- Targeted year-on-year cost reductions.
- Review and process purchase requisitions to ensure compliance with applicable requirements. Assist accounting staff in resolving invoice discrepancies.
- Leading purchasing activities for project: for mass production parts and parts in development for the project.
- Purchasing interface between project engineering, purchasing, sales and manufacturing.
- Member of the project team reporting to the Platform Manager for all activities related to the project including quarterly report of results.
- Carry out other comparable duties as required by the line manager.
Knowledge, Skills and Experience required
- Experience in the automotive industry.
- Knowledge of plastic and rubber parts.
- Technical understanding regarding goods, ideally W/H industries.
- Understanding of the manufacturing constraints.
- Good communication / negotiation and problem-solving skills.
- Computer literate in MS Project, and systems including MRP.
- Fluent written and spoken English.
Special Conditions
- The existing right to live and work in the UK.
Competencies Required
- Safe and ethical working.
- Quality.
- Customer and commercial focus.
- Technical capability.
Job Related Competencies
- Personal organisation.
- Communication.
- Attention to detail.
- Flexibility.
- Commercial awareness.
- Tenacity.
Buyer employer: Eastern Mountain Sports
SEWS-E is an exceptional employer located in Staffordshire, UK, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters collaboration and innovation within the automotive industry. With a strong focus on employee growth, we provide ample opportunities for professional development and career advancement, alongside competitive benefits that support work-life balance. Our commitment to ethical practices and quality ensures that every team member contributes to meaningful projects while being part of a supportive and inclusive culture.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Buyer
✨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 Eastern Mountain Sports.
✨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 Buyer
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 Eastern Mountain Sports:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Eastern Mountain Sports. 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 Eastern Mountain Sports.
How to prepare for a job interview at Eastern Mountain Sports
✨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 Eastern Mountain Sports!
✨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 Eastern Mountain Sports. 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 Eastern Mountain Sports's culture.
