At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage procurement of goods and services, negotiate contracts, and build supplier relationships.
- Company: Join HWM Global, a leader in innovative water conservation technology.
- Benefits: Hybrid work model, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with a focus on sustainability and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on water conservation and environmental protection.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in procurement, strong negotiation skills, and a degree in a related field.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
HWM Global looks after water for everyone, every day. Water is the world’s most life‑critical resource. Leaks in pipes lose precious treated water, and blockages in wastewater pipes cause overflows that pollute our environment, harming rivers and seas. As populations grow and climates change, water stress means even more pressure is put on our natural environment and the ageing infrastructure that serves our homes and cities. HWM Global’s innovative technology detects leaks and blockages in water and wastewater networks before they become a problem, helping to conserve fresh water and keep the environment safe from pollution. Its digital solutions monitor more than 150,000 km of water pipes globally, conserving and protecting water for millions of people every day from Chicago in the US to Sydney in Australia and Manchester in the UK.
Reports to: Supply Chain Manager
Location: Hybrid – onsite 3 days a week in Cwmbran, 2 days working from home.
Working Hours: 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday.
Applications Close By: 31st July 2026
PURPOSE OF JOB
The Buyer will manage procurement of goods and services supporting the company’s operational needs, sourcing, negotiating, and managing supplier relationships to ensure best value, quality, and service. The ideal candidate has a strong understanding of procurement processes, excellent negotiation skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with various departments.
CORE RESPONSIBILITIES
- Sourcing and Procurement:
- Identify and evaluate potential suppliers for indirect/direct goods and services.
- Develop and implement sourcing strategies to achieve cost savings and efficiency.
- Conduct market research to stay informed about industry trends and supplier capabilities.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers.
- Negotiate contracts, terms, and pricing with suppliers.
- Monitor supplier performance and address any issues related to quality, delivery, or service, implementing SLA.
- Cost Management & Negotiation:
- Develop and implement cost‑saving initiatives.
- Monitor spending and adherence to budget.
- Conduct cost analysis and benchmark studies.
- Negotiate favourable terms and conditions with suppliers, focusing on cost savings, payment terms, and delivery schedules.
- Continuously seek opportunities to optimise costs while maintaining quality standards.
- Contract Management:
- Draft, review, and manage contracts and agreements with suppliers.
- Ensure compliance with contractual terms, conditions, and regulatory requirements.
- Market Research:
- Stay informed about market trends, pricing, and supply chain developments.
- Conduct market research to identify potential suppliers and assess their competitiveness.
- Process Improvement:
- Continuously seek opportunities to improve procurement processes and practices.
- Implement best practices in procurement and supply chain management.
- Compliance and Risk Management:
- Ensure all procurement activities comply with company policies and regulations.
- Mitigate risks associated with procurement by assessing and managing supplier risk.
- Collaboration and Communication:
- Work closely with internal departments to understand their procurement needs.
- Communicate effectively with stakeholders to ensure alignment and support for procurement initiatives.
- Provide regular updates and reports on procurement activities and performance.
- Reporting and Documentation:
- Maintain accurate records of procurement activities, including contracts, orders, and vendor performance.
- Prepare regular reports on procurement metrics and key performance indicators.
All employees have a legal duty to take reasonable care for the health & safety of themselves and of others who may be affected by their acts or omissions at work and to observe and follow the relevant systems, rules and methods of working.
PERSON SPECIFICATION
- Strong leadership presence and the ability to influence and inspire others.
- Integrity and ethical conduct in all aspects of procurement activities.
- Resilience and the ability to handle pressure and challenging situations.
- Proactive and forward‑thinking mindset with a focus on anticipating and mitigating potential risks.
- Strong attention to detail and a commitment to delivering high‑quality work.
- Strong problem‑solving and decision‑making skills.
- Adaptability and openness to change.
- Excellent organisational and time management skills.
QUALIFICATIONS/ TRAINING
- Bachelor’s degree in business administration, supply chain management, or a related field.
- Extensive experience in procurement & sourcing, with a minimum of 5 years experience.
- Certification in procurement (e.g., CIPS, CPSM).
- Experience with ERP systems.
- Knowledge of procurement best practices and market trends.
- Strong negotiation and contract management skills.
- Familiarity with procurement software and tools.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Analytical thinking and problem‑solving abilities.
- Ability to work independently and make informed decisions.
- Knowledge of relevant regulations and compliance requirements.
- Results‑oriented with a focus on achieving procurement objectives.
- Advanced in data analysis and advanced use of Excel.
The above is not an exhaustive list of duties and you will be expected to perform different tasks as required to meet the overall business objectives.
Buyer employer: Halma p.l.c
HWM Global is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises innovation and environmental sustainability. With a hybrid working model based in Cwmbran, employees benefit from a collaborative environment that fosters professional growth and development, alongside competitive remuneration and a commitment to employee well-being. Join us in making a meaningful impact on water conservation and environmental protection while enjoying the flexibility of remote work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Buyer
✨Get Savvy with Industry Perks
Join procurement and purchasing forums or groups where pros hang out, like CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply). They'll share the inside scoop on job openings that might not show up on traditional job boards!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Consider creating a portfolio that outlines your achievements in procurement, like cost-saving initiatives or supplier management strategies. Having tangible evidence of your skills can really set you apart when applying to companies like Halma p.l.c.
✨Tap into Your Network
Leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in procurement—follow relevant hashtags, join groups, and engage in discussions. This is a great way to get noticed by potential employers before they even post a job!
✨Keep Your Eyes on Job Boards
With full-time positions, timing can be everything. Set alerts on job boards specifically for procurement roles. Don't wait for a job posting to close; apply through our website as soon as you see a fit—being proactive can give you the edge!
We think you need these skills to ace Buyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Procurement Know-How:When you're crafting your CV, make sure to highlight any procurement-specific skills you've got. Talk about your experience with supplier negotiations, cost analysis, or inventory management. If you’ve used software like SAP or Oracle, don’t forget to mention that too – it shows you know your way around the tech side of things!
Quantify Your Achievements:In procurement, numbers matter. Use your CV and cover letter to showcase any quantifiable achievements you've made in reducing costs or improving efficiencies. For example, mentioning that you helped save 20% on purchasing costs last year is way more impressive than just saying you managed the budget!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Halma p.l.c:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Halma p.l.c. Research the company’s procurement strategy, mention how your skills align with their goals, and share your enthusiasm for contributing to their success. This personal touch can really set you apart from the crowd!
Professional Certs Can Go a Long Way:If you've got any procurement-related certifications, such as CIPS or APICS, make sure they're front and centre on your CV. These qualifications show you're serious about your career in procurement and are committed to continuous learning. It’s a great way to signal your expertise and dedication to potential employers like Halma p.l.c.
How to prepare for a job interview at Halma p.l.c
✨Show Off Your Negotiation Skills
In procurement, strong negotiation skills are key. Be ready to share examples of past negotiations where you've successfully saved costs or improved supplier terms. We want to hear how you approached those situations and the strategies you used to achieve positive outcomes!
✨Know Your Tools
Make sure you’re familiar with procurement software and tools commonly used in the industry, such as SAP Ariba or Coupa. Come prepared to discuss any experiences you've had with these tools or similar platforms, as we need someone who can hit the ground running at Halma p.l.c!
✨Understand Market Trends
As a procurement professional, being aware of market trends can set you apart. Brush up on recent developments in supply chain management or procurement best practices and think about how they could impact your role at Halma p.l.c. Bringing a current perspective will show your enthusiasm for the industry.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Player Attitude
A full-time position means you'll be working closely with various teams. Be prepared to discuss how you collaborate with others, manage conflicts, and build relationships with stakeholders. Sharing anecdotes about past teamwork experiences will highlight your ability to fit into Halma p.l.c's culture.
