At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage key supplier relationships and drive procurement strategies for innovative projects.
- Company: Filtronic, a leader in advanced RF and microwave electronics.
- Benefits: Generous holiday, pension scheme, learning opportunities, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with excellent career growth and development opportunities.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact in the tech industry.
- Qualifications: Experience in purchasing or procurement, ideally in manufacturing or electronics.
The predicted salary is between 37800 - 46200 £ per year.
Description
Filtronic is a global leader in the design and manufacture of advanced RF, microwave and millimetre-wave electronics.
We support customers across defence, space and critical communications markets, delivering high-reliability solutions through engineering excellence and a collaborative, agile culture.
As we continue to grow, we are looking for an experienced
Purchasing Lead to join our busy and fast-moving Supply Chain team.
The Role
Reporting to the Purchasing Manager, the Purchasing Lead will take ownership of a portfolio of key suppliers, managing supplier relationships and supporting the delivery of our operational and commercial objectives.
This is a key role within our purchasing function, working closely with Project Management, Engineering, Quality, Business Development and other stakeholders to ensure supplier performance meets the needs of the business.
You will be responsible for managing key supplier accounts, supporting supplier development and identifying opportunities to improve performance, value and supply chain resilience.
You will also play an important role in developing our long-term procurement strategy and supporting future business growth.
We are looking for a confident and commercially minded negotiator who can build strong, long-term supplier relationships while constructively challenging suppliers to deliver better value and performance.
The role will support our UK sites and will involve travel to suppliers.
Key Responsibilities
- Own and manage relationships with key suppliers, acting as the primary point of contact for commercial and operational matters.
- Act as a lead purchasing contact for Project Managers on dedicated projects, providing input into project plans, reporting on material status and issuing works orders where required.
- Monitor and report supplier performance against agreed KPIs, driving continuous improvement and ensuring actions are followed through to completion.
- Identify supply chain risks, develop appropriate mitigations and proactively identify opportunities for improvement.
- Resolve commercial and operational supply chain issues in a timely and effective manner.
- Support the evaluation, due diligence and onboarding of new suppliers, including issuing NDAs and relevant onboarding documentation.
- Contribute to the development and implementation of Filtronic's long-term procurement strategy.
- Issue RFQs and RFIs in support of current business requirements and future demand.
- Conduct competitive tenders, analysing quotations and presenting recommendations to key stakeholders to support best-value supplier selection.
- Negotiate commercial terms and best-value outcomes for the business and support the implementation of agreed supplier terms.
- Capture relevant supplier export control information and highlight requirements to the wider business.
- Conduct supplier visits and produce clear and concise visit reports.
- Work collaboratively with stakeholders across the business to understand demand, priorities and requirements placed on suppliers.
- Work closely with Engineering and Quality teams to resolve supplier-related issues and drive improvements in supplier performance.
Requirements
About You
You will have proven experience in a purchasing or procurement role, ideally gained within a manufacturing, engineering or electronics environment .
You will be commercially aware and comfortable negotiating commercial terms with suppliers.
We are looking for someone who can manage stakeholders across the wider business.
Skills & Experience
- Proven experience in a procurement or purchasing role, ideally within manufacturing or electronics.
- Experience managing supplier relationships and running competitive tenders.
- Knowledge of supplier terms and conditions and commercial documentation, including NDAs.
- Experience onboarding new suppliers and managing key supplier accounts.
- Experience using ERP systems.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel and Power Point.
- Experience managing stakeholders across the business.
- Eligible to work in the United Kingdom.
Benefits
Benefits include
- 37.5 hour working week
- 25 days’ holiday plus public holidays, with the option to buy up to 5 additional days
- Contributory pension scheme with up to 8% company contribution
- Life Assurance
- Income Protection Insurance
- Save As You Earn (SAYE) share scheme
- Electric Vehicle (EV) scheme
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Volunteering day
- Learning and development opportunities
Some benefits become available after successful passing of your probation period.
Filtronic plc is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.
We welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or disability status.
If you require any adjustments or accommodations to support you during the interview process, please let us know and we will be happy to assist.
Purchasing Lead in Sedgefield employer: Filtronic
Filtronic is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and collaborative work environment at our cutting-edge headquarters in NETPark, Sedgefield. With a strong focus on employee growth, we provide extensive learning and development opportunities, competitive benefits, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion, making it an ideal place for talented engineers to thrive while working on innovative RF technology that shapes the future of communication and defence systems.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Purchasing Lead in Sedgefield
✨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 Filtronic.
✨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 Purchasing Lead in Sedgefield
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 Filtronic:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Filtronic. 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 Filtronic.
How to prepare for a job interview at Filtronic
✨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 Filtronic!
✨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 Filtronic. 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 Filtronic's culture.
