At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop and execute sustainable procurement strategies while managing supplier relationships.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking company that values innovation and accountability.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for lifelong learning.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with strong focus on career growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by strengthening supply chains and driving cost-reduction initiatives.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in relevant fields and extensive procurement experience required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
As a Strategic Sourcing Buyer, your mission is to be accountable for developing and executing a sustainable procurement strategy within your assigned commodity area. This includes establishing and managing long‑term agreements and service‑level commitments, optimising and rationalising the supplier base, and ensuring effective supplier onboarding. A key focus of the role is strengthening supply chain resilience by building diversified, high‑performing supplier networks and proactively mitigating risk. The role drives strong supplier relationships and performance to ensure parts are delivered on time, to specification, and at the lowest sustainable total cost. You will report to the Procurement Manager.
Responsibilities
- Develop and execute category strategies for assigned commodities, ensuring alignment with divisional and Product Company objectives.
- Build and maintain an optimal supplier portfolio that supports current operational needs and long‑term strategic goals.
- Establish effective integrated material supply methods along the entire chain through Buffer Stock Agreements (BSA) and Letters of Warranty (LoW).
- Develop and maintain business continuity plans for critical suppliers and critical parts, aligned with divisional strategy.
- Ensure supplier compliance with regulatory, ethical, environmental, and corporate governance requirements.
- Secure supplier capacity through proactive planning, capacity assessments, and contractual commitments.
- Identify, lead, and deliver cost‑reduction initiatives across the supply base.
- Collaborate closely with manufacturing to optimise material flow and ensure supply chain efficiency.
- Develop strong working relationships with Engineering, Production, Customer Service, Quality, and other internal stakeholders.
- Facilitate early supplier engagement in technology and product development projects to leverage external expertise.
Qualifications
- Minimum bachelor’s degree in engineering, Business Administration, or Supply Chain.
- CIPS qualification Level 4.
- Minimum 10 years procurement experience preferably in a manufacturing or engineering environment.
- 5 years in a strategic role, or experience in developing category strategies.
- Cost analysis and supply market intelligence skills.
- Proficient in reading and understanding technical drawings.
- Excellent communication skills across all levels of an organisation, both internally and externally with suppliers.
Benefits
- Culture of trust and accountability.
- Lifelong learning and career growth.
- Innovation powered by people.
- Comprehensive compensation and benefits.
- Health and well‑being.
This role offers a hybrid working arrangement, allowing you to split your time between working remotely and being on‑site at our office in Bristol, United Kingdom (GB).
Strategic Sourcing Buyer employer: Edwards Vacuum
As a Strategic Sourcing Buyer at our company, you will thrive in a culture that prioritises trust, accountability, and innovation, all while enjoying the flexibility of a hybrid working arrangement in the vibrant city of Bristol. We are committed to your lifelong learning and career growth, offering comprehensive benefits that support your health and well-being, making us an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic Sourcing Buyer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts on LinkedIn or attend local events. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its procurement strategies. Show us you understand their needs and how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the role of Strategic Sourcing Buyer. Confidence is key, so rehearse until it feels natural.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed and shows us you’re serious about joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Sourcing Buyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Strategic Sourcing Buyer role. Highlight your experience in developing procurement strategies and managing supplier relationships, as these are key aspects of the job.
Showcase Relevant Experience:Don’t just list your previous jobs; explain how your past roles relate to the responsibilities mentioned in the job description. If you've worked on cost-reduction initiatives or supplier onboarding, make that clear!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to see your qualifications and achievements at a glance.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Edwards Vacuum
✨Know Your Commodities
Before the interview, dive deep into the specific commodities you'll be handling. Understand market trends, key suppliers, and any recent changes in regulations. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also show that you're proactive and well-prepared.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
Be ready to discuss how you've developed and executed category strategies in the past. Use specific examples to illustrate your thought process and decision-making skills. Highlight how you’ve optimised supplier relationships and mitigated risks in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Strong Communication Skills
As a Strategic Sourcing Buyer, you'll need to communicate effectively with various stakeholders. Prepare to share examples of how you've built relationships with suppliers and collaborated with internal teams. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities. Think about challenges you've faced in procurement and how you overcame them. Be ready to discuss your approach to ensuring compliance and managing supplier performance under pressure.
