At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the purchasing team to optimise procurement processes and achieve cost efficiency.
- Company: Join Wabtec Corporation, a global leader in rail solutions and services.
- Benefits: Enjoy a permanent, full-time role with a supportive team and opportunities for growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of transportation while working in a diverse and inclusive environment.
- Qualifications: CIPS qualified or equivalent Business Degree; experience in purchasing or supplier management is preferred.
- Other info: Legal authorization to work in the UK is required; we value diverse backgrounds and experiences.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
It’s not just about your career or job title… It’s about who you are and the impact you will make on the world. Because whether it’s for each other or our customers, we put People First. When our people come together, we Expand the Possible and continuously look for ways to improve what we create and how we do it. If you are constantly striving to grow, you’re in good company. We are revolutionizing the way the world moves for future generations, and we want someone who is ready to move with us.
We are seeking an experienced Strategic Buyer to join our team at the LH Group (a Division of Wabtec UK Ltd) based in Burton on Trent. We support our customers through maintenance and operation optimisation with customised solutions for spare parts, repair, and overhaul activities on existing trains.
Role: Strategic Buyer
Location: Burton on Trent, Staffordshire, (DE13 8EN) – (Onsite)
Hours: Monday to Thursday 07:30 to 16:00pm and Friday 07:30am to 12:30pm, 37 hours per week
Contract Type: Permanent, Full-Time
How will you make a difference?
- Leading the purchasing team to optimise procurement processes and achieving cost efficiency.
- Spearheading cost reduction initiatives by identifying and implementing strategies to lower expenses without compromising quality.
- Effective supplier selection requiring thorough evaluation and negotiation to ensure the best possible terms and relationships to align with organisational goals.
What will your typical day look like?
- Deploy a strategy to aid the delivery of annual deflation aspirations.
- Support business planning processes in collating the budget material spend ambition.
- Facilitate regular review of actual and planned deflation and inflation.
- Create plans and strategies to deliver reductions or negate increases.
- Undertake contract reviews for key accounts and purchases above £0.5m.
- Implement SLAs / FWAs / Rebate programs with suppliers where necessary.
- Develop KPIs to measure performance vs budget.
- Work closely with the purchasing manager to deliver a procurement strategy on dual-sourcing existing products of high importance.
What do we want to know about you?
- CIPS qualified or equivalent Business Degree.
- A background in purchasing, procurement, or supplier management.
- A proven track record of successfully partnering with various suppliers.
- Ability to utilise creative and effective procurement strategies to acquire services while maintaining supplier relationships.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written.
If you don’t have all the above criteria don’t worry, we would still like to hear from you as we live our values and always put people first and strive to expand what is possible. Apply today!
Legal authorization to work in the UK is required. We will not sponsor individuals for employment visas, now or in the future, for this job opening.
Who are we?
Wabtec Corporation is a leading global provider of equipment, systems, digital solutions, and value-added services for freight and transit rail as well as the mining, marine, and industrial markets.
Our Commitment to Embrace Diversity: Wabtec is a global company that invests not just in our products, but also our people by embracing diversity and inclusion. We care about our relationships with our employees and take pride in celebrating the variety of experiences, expertise, and backgrounds that bring us together. We believe in hiring talented people of varied backgrounds, experiences, and styles… People like you! Wabtec Corporation is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or expression, or protected Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know.
Strategic Buyer employer: GE Transport
Contact Detail:
GE Transport Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic Buyer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in procurement and supply chain management. Understanding current market dynamics can help you demonstrate your strategic thinking during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the industry, especially those who work in procurement roles. Engaging with them can provide insights into the company culture and expectations, which can be invaluable during your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed supplier relationships or implemented cost-saving strategies in previous roles. Real-life scenarios can showcase your expertise and problem-solving skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Wabtec Corporation's values and recent projects. Tailoring your conversation to align with their mission of putting people first and expanding possibilities can make a strong impression during interviews.
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Buyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in purchasing, procurement, and supplier management. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to optimise procurement processes and achieve cost efficiency.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for the role and how your values align with the company's commitment to putting people first. Mention your CIPS qualification or equivalent degree and how it has prepared you for this position.
Showcase Your Achievements: Include quantifiable achievements in your application, such as successful cost reduction initiatives or effective supplier negotiations. This will help illustrate your proven track record and ability to deliver results.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for a Strategic Buyer role.
How to prepare for a job interview at GE Transport
✨Showcase Your Procurement Knowledge
Make sure to highlight your understanding of procurement processes and strategies during the interview. Be prepared to discuss specific examples where you've successfully implemented cost reduction initiatives or optimised supplier relationships.
✨Demonstrate Interpersonal Skills
Since the role requires excellent communication skills, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Use examples from your past experiences to illustrate how you've effectively collaborated with suppliers and team members.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities in real-world scenarios. Think about challenges you've faced in procurement and how you overcame them, particularly in terms of supplier negotiations and contract management.
✨Align with Company Values
Familiarise yourself with Wabtec's commitment to diversity and inclusion. Be ready to discuss how your personal values align with theirs, and how you can contribute to a culture that puts people first while driving business success.