At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement strategies and manage supplier relationships to optimise performance and cost savings.
- Company: Excalon is a top infrastructure contractor serving the utilities industry with exciting new projects.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, pension plan, life insurance, and annual bonuses.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team at a growing company making a real impact in the utilities sector.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement, strong negotiation skills, and relevant qualifications are essential.
- Other info: Onsite role in Salford with opportunities for professional growth and development.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 54000 £ per year.
Location: Salford Quays (Onsite)
Salary: Competitive
Job Type: Permanent/ Full time
About Us:
Excalon is a leading infrastructure contractor specialising in the provision of services to the utilities industry. With recent new business wins with multiple major clients adding to our existing portfolio of framework agreements and ongoing Major Projects, this is an exciting time to join our business.
About the role:
We have an exciting new vacancy for an experienced Senior Buyer to work within our Procurement department. Reporting to the Support Services Director and working closely with the rest of the procurement team, you will focus on Supply Chain Management and the buying Strategy for the business to ensure that all work is carried out as per Excalon processes and procedures.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement strategic sourcing strategies to identify cost-saving opportunities and enhance supplier performance.
- Conduct market research, supplier assessments, and benchmarking to identify potential suppliers, assess their capabilities, and negotiate favourable terms and conditions.
- Manage relationships with key suppliers, including contract manufacturers, distributors, and service providers, to ensure alignment with business objectives and performance expectations.
- Conduct supplier evaluations, performance reviews, and audits to monitor supplier performance, address issues, and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
- Collaborate with internal stakeholders, including department heads, project managers, and finance teams, to gather procurement requirements, assess demand forecasts, and develop procurement plans.
- Negotiate contract, pricing agreements, and service legal agreements with suppliers to achieve cost savings, mitigate risks, and secure favourable terms and conditions.
- Review and analyse contract terms, conditions, service level agreements and specifications to ensure compliance with business requirements, legal standards, and regulatory obligations.
- In conjunction with the Head of Legal and Compliance, monitor supplier compliance with contractual obligations, quality standards, and ethical practices, and take corrective actions as necessary to address noncompliance issues.
- Identify and assess risks associated with supply chain disruptions, price fluctuations, and supplier performance issues, and develop risk mitigation strategies to minimise exposure and ensure business continuity.
- Implement contingency plans, alternative sourcing strategies, and supply chain resilience measures to mitigate risks and ensure the availability of critical goods and services.
- Analyse procurement data, spending patterns, and cost drivers to identify opportunities for cost reduction, process optimisation, and efficiency improvements.
- Support the Support Services Director to prepare procurement reports, dashboards, and presentations to communicate key procurement metrics, performance indicators, and savings achievements to senior management and stakeholders.
- Compile procurement strategies.
- Prepare supply chain data and analysis for PQQ's, tenders and new projects.
- Manage specific supply chain within the Contract to monitor performance and drive continuous improvement to support Contract and Business Unit key objectives.
- Working closely with the Sustainability function and the project Deliver Lead you will develop a new robust supply chain capacity and expertise, develop relationships with new suppliers and embed collaborative working both with the customer and the supply chain, aligning with the ethos of LTC's delivery strategy.
About you:
- Proven experience as a buyer or procurement professional, with a track record of successfully coordinating procurement activities and supplier relationships.
- Strong knowledge of procurement principles, strategic sourcing methodologies, and contract negotiation techniques, with expertise in procurement processes and procedures.
- Excellent negotiation and communication skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with suppliers, stakeholders, and internal customers.
- Relevant degree or professional qualification in procurement, supply chain management, business administration, or a related field is essential.
- Professional accreditation or membership with relevant procurement organisations (e.g. CIPS) is advantageous.
- Previous experience within the utilities/infrastructure/construction industry would be an advantage but not essential.
Benefits:
- Salary: Up to £45,000
- Royal London Group Personal Pension Plan
- Group Life Insurance 2 x Salary
- Occupational Health Service
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Annual bonus scheme
- On site parking
Please click the APPLY button to submit your CV for this role. Candidates with experience or relevant job titles of Procurement Manager, Lead Purchasing Agent, Strategic Sourcing Manager, Category Manager, and Senior Procurement Officer may also be considered.
Senior Buyer in Salford employer: Excalon
Contact Detail:
Excalon Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Buyer in Salford
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Excalon's recent projects and case studies. Understanding their current initiatives will help you tailor your discussions during interviews, showcasing how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the utilities and infrastructure sectors. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with potential colleagues or even current employees at Excalon, which could give you insider insights.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your negotiation skills and be prepared to discuss specific examples of successful negotiations you've conducted in the past. This role heavily relies on strong negotiation abilities, so demonstrating your expertise can set you apart.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the latest trends in supply chain management and procurement within the utilities sector. Being knowledgeable about current challenges and innovations will show your commitment to staying ahead in the field.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Buyer in Salford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in procurement and supply chain management. Use keywords from the job description, such as 'strategic sourcing', 'supplier performance', and 'contract negotiation' to demonstrate your fit for the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of Excalon's business and how your skills align with their needs. Mention specific achievements in your previous roles that relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: If you have any professional qualifications or memberships related to procurement, such as CIPS, be sure to mention these prominently in your application. This can set you apart from other candidates.
Showcase Industry Knowledge: If you have experience in the utilities or construction industry, make sure to include this in your application. Discuss how this background equips you to handle the challenges of the Senior Buyer role at Excalon.
How to prepare for a job interview at Excalon
✨Research Excalon Thoroughly
Before your interview, make sure to dive deep into Excalon's background, recent projects, and their approach to procurement. Understanding their values and current challenges will help you tailor your responses and show genuine interest.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully negotiated contracts or improved supplier relationships, and be ready to discuss them in detail.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
As a Senior Buyer, negotiation is key. Be prepared to discuss your negotiation strategies and any successful outcomes you've achieved. Highlight how you can bring value to Excalon through effective supplier management.
✨Demonstrate Your Knowledge of Supply Chain Management
Be ready to talk about your understanding of supply chain dynamics, risk management, and sustainability practices. Discuss how you can contribute to Excalon's goals in these areas, especially in relation to their commitment to continuous improvement.