At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage procurement of materials and services to support business operations.
- Company: Join Advanced, a global leader in fire safety systems.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and a dynamic work environment.
- Other info: Collaborative team culture with opportunities for continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a role that ensures safety and efficiency.
- Qualifications: Experience in supply chain or procurement is preferred.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 50000 £ per year.
Where performance, quality and ease of use are paramount, you’ll find Advanced on the wall. Advanced is a global leader in the design and manufacture of specialist fire safety systems that protect lives and property in more than 80 countries across the globe.
Our team members are passionate, driven and up for a challenge. If you have ambition to make a difference, then please read on. The Buyer is responsible for the day-to-day procurement of materials and services to support business operations. The role focuses on ensuring timely, cost-effective, and accurate purchasing aligned with production and customer demand. Working closely with suppliers and internal stakeholders, the Buyer will ensure continuity of supply, maintain accurate system data, and support operational efficiency through effective purchasing practices and continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities- Raise and manage purchase orders in line with business demand
- Manage supplier delivery schedules to ensure on-time delivery and continuity of supply
- Monitor and update order confirmations, lead times, and pricing within ERP systems
- Build and maintain strong supplier relationships to support operational performance
- Support negotiation activities to achieve cost savings and improved commercial terms
- Track supplier performance (OTIF, quality, lead time) and escalate as necessary
- Work closely with Planning, Production, and Logistics to align supply with demand
- Identify and mitigate short-term supply risks and expedite critical orders where required
- Support cost reduction and efficiency initiatives within the procurement function
- Ensure accurate data management within procurement systems
- Ensure compliance with company policies, procedures, and relevant regulations
- Contribute to continuous improvement activities within procurement and supply chain
- Degree or equivalent qualification in Supply Chain, Procurement, Engineering, Business, or related discipline (desirable)
- Professional qualifications such as CIPS or equivalent (desirable)
- Understanding of international supply chain management and supplier development
- Commercial and financial awareness
- Analytical and data-driven, with the ability to interpret KPIs and drive improvements
- Confident communicator with the ability to influence both internal stakeholders and external partners
- Experience working with ERP/MRP systems and managing supplier data
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and operate effectively across different time zones and cultures
Buyer employer: Halma p.l.c
At Advanced, we pride ourselves on being a dynamic employer that values passion and ambition in our team members. Located in the vibrant Balliol Business Park, Newcastle upon Tyne, we offer comprehensive on-the-job training and ongoing support to help you grow your skills in a collaborative work environment. With a commitment to quality and innovation in fire safety systems, joining us means being part of a global leader where your contributions truly make a difference.
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.
