At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage supplier performance and ensure timely delivery of materials for aviation projects.
- Company: GKN Aerospace, a leader in innovative air travel solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hours, generous holiday, and great pension scheme.
- Other info: Dynamic workplace with a commitment to diversity and career growth.
- Why this job: Join us to make a real impact on the future of aviation and sustainability.
- Qualifications: 2+ years experience or relevant degree; strong communication and data skills.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
Fantastic challenges. Amazing opportunities. GKN Aerospace is reimagining air travel: going further, faster and greener! Fuelled by great people whose expertise and creativity sets the standards in our industry, we're inspired by the opportunities to innovate and break boundaries. We're proud to play a part in protecting the world's democracies. And we're committed to putting sustainability at the centre of everything we do, opening up and protecting our planet. With over 16,000 employees across 33 manufacturing sites in 12 countries we serve over 90% of the world's aircraft and engine manufacturers and achieved sales of £3.35 bn in 2023. There are no limits to where you can take your career.
Job Summary
It’s great to know you’re making a difference to the future of aviation! Whatever part you play you’ll be helping us deliver operational excellence to our customers. At our GKN Filton site, we specialise in the design and manufacture of large complex structural wing assemblies, detailed metallic components and wing systems for a combination of both civil and military aircraft. We are seeking a proactive and detail‑oriented Operational Buyer to join us on a 12‑month FTC. The main task for this role is to manage supplier performance and ensure the effective delivery of materials in line with operational requirements across an approximate £10 m spend. This role will be 100% on site at our Filton, Bristol location.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Manage supplier scheduling in line with MPS and maintain accurate MRP data.
- Ensure accurate scheduling information.
- Support in delivering external supply reviews.
- Maintain external capacity reviews.
- Drive continuous supplier performance improvement.
- Support supplier quality processes (non-conformance, returns, claims).
- Managing both internal and external stakeholders.
- Utilising data to improve internal and external processes.
What You’ll Bring
For this role, we’re looking for you to have a couple of years of experience within a relevant role, or to have a relevant Bachelor's or Master’s degree. The other essentials are very much behavioural; we’re looking for people who are able to stay cool under pressure.
Essential
- 2+ years of relevant experience or a relevant degree qualification.
- Excellent English communication skills.
- High capacity to utilise MS Office tools.
- Great stakeholder management.
- Data analytics skills.
- Supplier/customer escalation exposure.
- Problem resolution.
Desirable
- CIPS qualification
- Experience using ERP system (SAP preferred)
What We’ll Offer
Once you’re on board you’ll get the following perks and benefits:
- Competitive salary dependent on experience.
- Industry Leading Pension Scheme – we’ll pay 1.5× your contribution (max 12%) Life Assurance 8× salary.
- 25 days holiday + bank holidays.
- Flexible working hours including the ability to finish early on a Friday.
- Income protection.
- Shopping discounts.
- Cycle To Work Scheme.
- Employee Assistance Programme.
- Virtual GP Clinic for you and immediate family.
- A collaborative, dynamic working environment.
We are also committed to providing an accessible recruitment process, so if you require reasonable adjustments at any stage during our recruitment process please get in touch and let us know.
A Great Place to Work Needs a Great Way of Working Everyone is welcome to apply to GKN. We believe that we can only achieve our ambitions through a coming together of diverse minds who enjoy collaborating in an inspirational environment. Through our commitment to diversity, inclusion and belonging, we create a culture where everyone feels welcome to contribute.
Operational Buyer in Bristol employer: GKN Aerospace Services Limited
GKN Aerospace is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and collaborative work environment at our Filton, Bristol site, where you can contribute to the future of aviation while enjoying a range of benefits including a competitive salary, industry-leading pension scheme, and flexible working hours. We prioritise employee growth and inclusivity, ensuring that every team member feels valued and empowered to innovate and excel in their roles. Join us in our mission to drive sustainability and operational excellence in the aerospace industry.
Contact Details:
GKN Aerospace Services Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operational Buyer in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at GKN Aerospace on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the company culture and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching GKN's recent projects and sustainability initiatives. We want to show that we’re not just interested in the role, but also in how we can contribute to their mission of reimagining air travel.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions related to supplier management and stakeholder engagement. We need to demonstrate our problem-solving skills and ability to stay cool under pressure—key traits for an Operational Buyer!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we can keep track of your progress and provide updates directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Operational Buyer in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Operational Buyer role. Highlight your relevant experience, especially in supplier management and data analytics, to show us you’re the perfect fit!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about aviation and how your background aligns with our mission at GKN Aerospace. Keep it engaging and personal!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since excellent communication is key for this role, make sure your application is clear and concise. Use proper grammar and structure to demonstrate your English skills, as we want to see how you express yourself.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at GKN Aerospace Services Limited
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into GKN Aerospace's mission and values. Understand their commitment to sustainability and innovation in aviation. This will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also show your genuine interest in the company.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your relevant experience in supplier management and data analytics. Prepare specific examples of how you've improved supplier performance or resolved issues in the past. This will demonstrate your capability to handle the responsibilities of the Operational Buyer role.
✨Master the Tech
Since the role requires proficiency in MS Office and possibly ERP systems like SAP, brush up on these tools. If you have any experience with data analysis or MRP systems, be sure to highlight that during the interview.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
GKN values great stakeholder management, so think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with both internal and external parties. Be prepared to discuss how you handle pressure and resolve conflicts, as this will showcase your behavioural fit for the team.
