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- Tasks: Support sourcing materials and manage supplier relationships for innovative optical products.
- Company: Join G&H, a leader in optical design and manufacturing with a global presence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension contributions, performance bonuses, and health cash plan.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that drives innovation in optics and supports exciting projects.
- Qualifications: Willingness to pursue CIPS qualification and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Contract term: Fixed term contract until end of September 2026
ABOUT US
G&H is a world leader in optical designing, testing and manufacturing. As experts in the technology of light, G&H works with customers to provide optical systems, assemblies, and components for demanding applications. Headquartered in Ilminster Somerset, UK with primary operations in the USA and Europe, G&H is recognised for the breadth of its acousto-optic, electro-optic, crystal-optic, fibre optic, and precision optic products. G&H is recognised as the preferred source for OEMs in the life sciences, industrial, and aerospace and defence industries, with a history of quality and excellence that dates back over seventy-five years. Our success is built on innovation, precision, and the talent of our people. We are committed to developing capability at every stage of a career, from apprenticeships and graduate pathways through to leadership development.
Role Purpose
To support the sourcing of direct and indirect materials at the required quality, ensuring timely delivery and competitive cost, from new programme launch through to steady‑state production.
Key Responsibilities
- Procure direct materials in line with operational requirements and MRP outputs
- Maintain accurate part and procurement parameters within MRP/ERP systems (lead times, safety stock, yields, etc.)
- Ensure all purchase orders and amendments are current and accurate in the system
- Support tender processes for new requirements, including supplier selection and commercial negotiations
- Develop and maintain strong, proactive supplier relationships
- Manage inventory levels in collaboration with internal and external stakeholders to meet business and lifecycle needs
- Identify and support implementation of cost reduction initiatives
- Monitor procurement KPIs (OTIF, Quality, PPV) and provide regular reporting with action plans
- Build effective internal relationships to resolve purchasing issues and support business needs
- Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives across procurement and supply chain processes
- Support implementation of new tools, systems, and procedures across the group
Mandatory Responsibilities
- Comply with all company policies, procedures, and management systems
- Adhere to legal and internal standards for Health, Safety, Environmental, and Quality compliance
- Promote a culture of mutual respect and professionalism with colleagues and contractors
- Demonstrate company values: Customer Focus, Integrity, Action, Unity, Precision
Performance Measures (KPIs)
- Supplier On-Time Delivery (OTD)
- Supplier Quality Performance (PPM or equivalent)
- Purchase Price Variance (PPV)
- Inventory Management effectiveness
- Cost reduction and risk mitigation achievements
- Successful on‑time product/programme launches
ABOUT YOU
Qualifications & Experience
- Willingness to work towards CIPS qualification (study support available)
Personal Attributes
- Driven and determined with a results‑oriented mindset
- Strong communication skills, able to engage effectively at all levels
- Positive attitude toward continuous improvement
- High level of accountability and ownership
- Strong attention to detail
- Customer‑focused approach
- Able to work independently and collaboratively within a team
WHY JOIN US
- Competitive salary, based on experience.
- Company pension (6% contribution).
- Performance‑based company bonus scheme.
- Health Cash Plan.
- £500 referral bonus for successful employee referrals.
Notes: This job description is not intended to be exhaustive in every respect, but rather to clearly define the fundamental purpose, responsibilities and dimensions for the role. Therefore, this job description does not describe any individual role holder. In addition to the contents of this job description, employees are expected to undertake all other reasonable and related tasks allocated by their line manager. The Company is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants for employment. The Company does not discriminate in employment opportunity or practices on the grounds of gender, race, religion or belief, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by national laws under which the Company operates. Potential candidates should be aware that many of the employment roles at Gooch & Housego are subject to government security and export control restrictions. These restrictions mean that factors such as your nationality, any nationalities that you may have previously held and your place of birth, could restrict the roles you are eligible to perform within the organisation. All UK applicants must, as a minimum, be able to successfully complete security vetting to the UK government’s Baseline Personnel Security Standard, which includes a criminal record check being performed. Many roles may also require higher levels of security vetting to be completed, where applicants must typically have been continuously resident within the UK for the past five to ten years.
Junior Buyer in Ilminster employer: Gooch & Housego PLC
Contact Detail:
Gooch & Housego PLC Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Buyer in Ilminster
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching G&H and understanding their products and values. Tailor your answers to show how your skills align with their mission of innovation and precision.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions and scenarios related to procurement and supplier management. This will help you feel more confident and articulate during the actual interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the G&H team.
We think you need these skills to ace Junior Buyer in Ilminster
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Junior Buyer role. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with our needs at G&H, especially in procurement and supplier management.
Showcase Your Attention to Detail: As a Junior Buyer, attention to detail is key! Use your application to demonstrate how you've successfully managed inventory or procurement processes in the past. We love candidates who can spot the little things that make a big difference.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it's relevant. We appreciate candidates who can communicate effectively, just like we do in our team!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Gooch & Housego PLC
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand G&H's products and their applications. Familiarise yourself with terms like MRP/ERP systems and procurement KPIs. This will show your genuine interest in the role and help you engage in meaningful conversations.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your strong communication skills and attention to detail. Think of situations where you've successfully managed supplier relationships or contributed to cost reduction initiatives. Be ready to discuss how these experiences can benefit G&H.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company's culture, team dynamics, and future projects. This not only demonstrates your enthusiasm but also helps you assess if G&H is the right fit for you. Consider asking about their approach to continuous improvement in procurement processes.
✨Emphasise Teamwork
G&H values collaboration, so be sure to highlight your ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Share examples of how you've built effective internal relationships to resolve issues and support business needs, showcasing your customer-focused approach.