At a Glance
- Tasks: Negotiate supplier contracts and develop sourcing strategies in a fast-paced environment.
- Company: High-performance manufacturing business with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive day rates, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with a focus on cost, quality, and technology.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make an impact in the automotive industry.
- Qualifications: Degree in Business or Engineering and experience in procurement.
Commodity Buyers (Exterior & Interior, Electrical and Powertrain commodity roles available)
Contract: 3 months
Location: Bicester or Woking based with Hybrid working (3 days onsite per week)
Rate: Competitive day rates outside IR35
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Commodity Buyer with Exterior & Interior, Electrical, Powertrain or Motorsport purchasing experience to join a high-performance manufacturing business on a contract basis. These roles sit within a fast-paced procurement function and cover the various commodity groups. Working closely with Procurement, Engineering, and Supplier Quality teams, you’ll play a key role in sourcing, negotiating, and finalising supplier agreements — ensuring the business secures the best possible balance of cost, quality, and technology for future programmes.
Key Responsibilities
- Negotiate and finalise supplier contracts across assigned commodities.
- Mitigate cost increases and lead cost-down initiatives.
- Develop and execute sourcing strategies in partnership with Engineering and Supplier Quality.
- Conduct supplier assessments and present sourcing recommendations.
- Ensure suppliers meet cost, quality, and delivery objectives.
- Act as the main point of contact for supplier relationships and internal stakeholders.
- Support risk analysis, total acquisition cost reviews, and cross-functional decision-making.
About You
- Degree in Business, Engineering or related discipline (MCIPS qualification desirable).
- Proven experience in a manufacturing purchasing role (automotive or similar sector preferred).
- Strong background in procurement or commodity buying.
- Experienced in Electrical / Powertrain / Interior & Exterior purchasing.
- Experience developing and implementing commodity strategies.
- Skilled in negotiation and contract management.
- Excellent communicator with the ability to influence at all levels.
- Analytical and detail-oriented, with a proactive, collaborative approach.
Hybrid Contract Commodity Buyer – Automotive in Bicester employer: Gerrell & Hard Ltd.
Join a high-performance manufacturing business that values innovation and collaboration, offering a dynamic work environment in Bicester or Woking with hybrid working options. As a Commodity Buyer, you'll benefit from competitive day rates and the opportunity to work alongside talented professionals in a fast-paced procurement function, ensuring your growth through exposure to diverse commodity groups and strategic supplier negotiations. With a strong focus on employee development and a culture that encourages proactive engagement, this role is perfect for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment in the automotive sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Hybrid Contract Commodity Buyer – Automotive in Bicester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the automotive industry and let them know you're on the lookout for a Commodity Buyer role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on an opportunity that’s not even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your negotiation skills. Since you'll be dealing with supplier contracts, practice articulating your strategies and past successes. We want you to shine when discussing how you can mitigate costs and enhance supplier relationships!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your analytical skills! Be ready to discuss how you've tackled cost-down initiatives or developed sourcing strategies in previous roles. We love seeing candidates who can back up their experience with solid examples.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for talented individuals like you to join our fast-paced procurement team.
We think you need these skills to ace Hybrid Contract Commodity Buyer – Automotive in Bicester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Commodity Buyer. Highlight your experience in procurement, especially in the automotive sector, and showcase any relevant achievements that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your negotiation skills and your ability to develop sourcing strategies.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t forget to highlight your analytical and communication skills in your application. We want to see how you can influence stakeholders and manage supplier relationships effectively.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get you on board quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Gerrell & Hard Ltd.
✨Know Your Commodities
Make sure you brush up on the specific commodities you'll be dealing with, like Electrical, Powertrain, or Interior & Exterior. Understanding the nuances of these areas will help you speak confidently about your experience and how it relates to the role.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare examples of past negotiations where you successfully mitigated costs or secured better terms. Be ready to discuss your approach and the outcomes, as this is a key part of the job.
✨Understand the Business
Research the company’s products and their market position. Knowing their challenges and competitors will allow you to tailor your answers and demonstrate how you can add value to their procurement function.
✨Prepare for Cross-Functional Collaboration
Since you'll be working closely with Engineering and Supplier Quality teams, think of examples where you've successfully collaborated across departments. Highlight your communication skills and how you’ve influenced decisions in the past.
