At a Glance
- Tasks: Build strong supplier relationships and negotiate contracts to optimise purchasing strategies.
- Company: Established engineering and manufacturing firm in Poole, Dorset.
- Benefits: Competitive salary and the chance to shape procurement strategies.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity with potential for career growth in a dynamic industry.
- Why this job: Take ownership of supplier partnerships and drive cost-saving initiatives.
- Qualifications: Experience in strategic buying and strong negotiation skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
First Base Employment is currently recruiting for a Strategic Buyer to join an established engineering and manufacturing environment based in Poole, with a planned start in 2027. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Buyer or Strategic Procurement professional looking to take ownership of supplier relationships, procurement strategies and commercial negotiations. The successful candidate will play a key role in developing supplier partnerships, improving purchasing performance and identifying cost-saving opportunities.
Key Responsibilities of a Strategic Buyer:
- Developing and maintaining strong relationships with key suppliers.
- Monitoring supplier performance and identifying opportunities for improvement.
- Negotiating long-term supplier agreements and contracts.
- Managing supplier costs, commercial risks and purchasing strategies.
- Conducting supplier performance reviews and improvement meetings.
- Carrying out supplier risk assessments and maintaining approved supplier records.
- Supporting the wider purchasing function, including raising purchase orders and requests for quotations.
- Working with suppliers to improve sustainability and reduce supply chain emissions.
Key Skills of a Strategic Buyer:
- Previous experience in a Strategic Buyer or similar senior purchasing position.
- Strong supplier relationship management and negotiation skills.
- Experience managing supplier contracts and long-term agreements.
- Knowledge of procurement strategies and cost reduction.
- Experience monitoring supplier performance and managing supply chain risks.
- Aerospace or defence industry experience would be advantageous.
- Strong commercial awareness and communication skills.
Strategic Buyer employer: First Base Employment Ltd
Join a dynamic team in Stroud as a CNC Programmer, where you will thrive in a precision engineering environment that values quality and innovation. With competitive pay starting from £18 per hour, generous holiday allowances, and opportunities for overtime, we foster a supportive work culture that encourages professional growth and skill development. Our commitment to employee satisfaction is reflected in our flexible working hours and the chance to work on complex projects that challenge your expertise.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic 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 First Base Employment Ltd.
✨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 Strategic 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 First Base Employment Ltd:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to First Base Employment Ltd. 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 First Base Employment Ltd.
How to prepare for a job interview at First Base Employment Ltd
✨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 First Base Employment Ltd!
✨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 First Base Employment Ltd. 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 First Base Employment Ltd's culture.
