At a Glance
- Tasks: Join Lotus Cars to lead supplier relationships and drive procurement strategies for high-performance sports cars.
- Company: Lotus Cars, a legendary sports car manufacturer with a rich history and innovative future.
- Benefits: Flexible working policy, dynamic environment, and the chance to work on iconic automotive projects.
- Other info: 3-month fixed-term contract at our state-of-the-art Hethel facility.
- Why this job: Be part of a pioneering team shaping the future of electric performance vehicles.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement, strong communication skills, and a passion for the automotive industry.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Lotus Cars is renowned for crafting world‑class, high‑performance, and lightweight sports cars that are celebrated across the globe. Lotus Cars Limited serves as the company’s manufacturing HQ in the UK, where we proudly produce iconic models such as the Emira and the all‑electric Evija. As we continue to elevate our capabilities and global presence, we are seeking a Senior Buyer – 3‑Month FTC to join our dynamic Supply team at our state‑of‑the‑art manufacturing facility in Hethel.
About the Role
Lotus is looking for a talented, creative, and motivated person to join us on our journey. This role requires a commercially astute individual to join the procurement activity for a defined direct material product group, working closely with our Engineering, Quality and Programme teams. Purchasing is a key stakeholder in delivering the future of Lotus and this role will be pivotal to creating the right supply chains for our future products by acting as a core conduit for true cross‑functional working across our Production Purchasing, Supply, Supplier Quality, Product Engineering and Manufacturing functions.
Key Responsibilities
- Leading and promoting the development of collaborative and world‑class supplier relationships.
- Managing the supplier performance, through vehicle launch phases and current vehicle phases, ensuring that Quality, Cost and Delivery performance is maintained.
- Establishing an in‑depth understanding of the supply base, local and global markets, and the requirements of the business.
- Developing and maintaining commodity & sourcing strategies.
- Leading supplier negotiations and ensuring the delivery of material cost targets for the new product introduction.
- Focusing on “best practice”, striving for, and driving measurable process improvement opportunities.
- Identifying and driving cost reduction activities throughout the supply base, including the identification of Make vs Buy opportunities, supporting the development of business justifications.
- Managing supplier capacity changes and constraints and developing mitigation strategies for any suppliers, where a risk is identified.
- Networking with the wider organisation to maximise group leverage possibilities.
Key Qualifications
- Ability to work independently, results driven, and tenacious, with the drive and perseverance to deliver within a complex, highly demanding environment.
- A strong communicator with the ability to communicate effectively with key stakeholders to influence cross‑functional engagement.
- An effective team player, who actively develops and supports other team members.
- A winning spirit – resilience and tenacity.
- Ability to be nimble and be an effective problem solver.
- Constructively challenge what doesn’t meet the needs of our customers.
- Previous experience within procurement and supply chain.
- Experience within the manufacturing or automotive sector is desirable.
- Desirable commodity knowledge: machining, casting and raw material (Aluminium, Steel).
- Understand the strategic role of the Procurement function and ability to work at this level.
- Higher education: Degree or NVQ level 5 Certificate (ideally technical/business related).
- Flexibility to work independently and travel as and when the business requires.
Additional Information
This role will be working from our Hethel plant within our flexible working policy. Candidates must be eligible to work in UK without VISA sponsorship. 3‑Month Fixed term contract.
About Our Company
Group Lotus is a leading sports car manufacturer with over 75‑year long history of iconic designs, groundbreaking engineering and legendary victories on the F1 track. Today we are transforming into a truly global performance car brand focused on the electrical future. In 2022 we launched the Eletre, the world’s first all‑electric hyper‑SUV, and in 2023 our fully‑electric Hyper‑GT, Emeya. As part of the Lotus team, you push boundaries – those of the car industry and of your own. Every member of the Lotus family has some of the pioneering mindset of founder Colin Chapman in them. Hethel, Norfolk, England has been the home of Lotus for over 60 years, ever since Colin Chapman, our founder, started making championship‑winning racing cars. In conjunction with production facilities in Norwich, and research facilities near Warwick, our UK sites offer a wide breadth of roles for all disciplines. We’re not just a car company; we’re a diverse mix of talent from all walks of life. At Group Lotus, we firmly believe that diversity and inclusion are not just buzzwords but essential pillars of a thriving and successful organisation.
Senior Buyer - 3 Month FTC in Norwich employer: Group Lotus
Lotus Cars is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Hethel, where innovation meets tradition. We prioritise employee growth through collaborative projects and a culture that values diversity and inclusion, ensuring every team member can thrive and contribute to our pioneering journey in the automotive industry. With a focus on high-performance sports cars and a commitment to sustainability, joining Lotus means being part of a legacy that pushes boundaries and shapes the future of driving.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Buyer - 3 Month FTC in Norwich
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Lotus Cars on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by knowing your stuff! Research Lotus Cars, their products, and recent news. Show them you’re not just another candidate but someone who’s genuinely excited about their mission and values.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your STAR technique for answering competency questions. Think of specific examples from your past experiences that showcase your skills in procurement and supply chain management. This will help you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Lotus family.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Buyer - 3 Month FTC in Norwich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Senior Buyer role. Highlight your procurement experience, especially in the automotive sector, and don’t forget to showcase your ability to work cross-functionally!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about joining Lotus Cars and how your background makes you the perfect fit for our dynamic Supply team. Be creative and let your personality come through!
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, give examples of how you've tackled challenges in previous roles. We love candidates who can think on their feet and come up with innovative solutions, so don’t hold back on sharing those success stories!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our career site. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our company culture there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Group Lotus
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into Lotus Cars and their iconic models like the Emira and Evija. Understand their procurement processes and how they align with the company's goals. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your genuine interest and show that you're ready to contribute from day one.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
As a Senior Buyer, you'll be leading supplier negotiations. Prepare examples of past negotiations where you achieved significant cost savings or improved supplier relationships. Be ready to discuss your approach to problem-solving and how you handle challenging situations.
✨Emphasise Cross-Functional Collaboration
This role requires working closely with various teams. Highlight your experience in cross-functional projects and how you've successfully collaborated with engineering, quality, and production teams. Share specific instances where your teamwork led to successful outcomes.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to manage supplier performance and capacity changes. Think about potential scenarios you might face in this role and how you would tackle them. This shows your proactive mindset and readiness to handle the complexities of the position.
