At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage supplier relationships and turn demand into orders for aerospace and automotive sectors.
- Company: Dynamic company focused on lightweight composite manufacturing with a commitment to innovation.
- Benefits: Private healthcare, pension scheme, stock options, and opportunities for career growth.
- Other info: Join a diverse team with a focus on continuous improvement and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced environment while supporting cutting-edge projects.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement, strong negotiation skills, and knowledge of manufacturing processes.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
Overview
In this role you own the supplier base and all purchasing across two sites, turning demand into orders and protecting delivery dates.
You will manage supplier performance, negotiate terms, and defend material lead times to support rapid growth and scale-up.
Working closely with Planning, Engineering, and Finance, you help secure cost-competitive supply for aerospace, automotive, defense, and space programs.
Your work directly influences on-time delivery and overall profitability while supporting a mission to advance lightweight composite manufacturing.
- Pay / Benefits
- private healthcare
- pension scheme
- stock options
- career growth opportunities
- innovation-focused culture
- diversity and inclusion
Responsibilities
- Convert MRP demand into purchase orders in SYSPRO, accurately and on time
- Own the open purchase order book and renegotiate or source alternatives when dates cannot be held
- Maintain single PO per material requirement and ensure correct coding for P&L
- Ensure non-MRP items have proper requisition and approvals
- Resolve invoicing, pricing and receipt queries with Finance and implement DPO and DIO KPIs
- Own supplier base end-to-end: onboarding, performance, and replacements as needed
- Negotiate price, lead time, minimum order quantities, call-off schedules and terms
- Consolidate demand across two sites for volume pricing and second-source critical materials
- Manage subcontract processing suppliers including rates, terms, capacity and quality
- Track supplier on-time delivery and quality metrics monthly
- Own material lead time visibility and provide firm availability quotes at contract reviews
- Assist Business Development and Engineering with costed BOMs and lead times for quotes
- Support procurement for new product introduction and qualification builds
- Ensure compliance with AS9100 and IATF 16949 through supplier management and traceability
- Document and maintain purchasing procedures and governance
- Report on spend, savings, supplier performance and supply risk
- Other duties as the business grows
- Key requirements
- Proven buying or procurement experience in a manufacturing environment
- Strong working knowledge of ERP / MRP purchasing
- Real negotiation experience: price, lead time, terms, recovery when issues
- Solid understanding of BOMs and manufacturing processes
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with data ownership
- Accuracy under pressure and attention to MRP integrity
- Clear communication with cross-functional teams
- Ability to manage priorities across two sites and travel between Gloucester and Swindon
- Willingness to travel regularly and hold a UK driving licence
- Continuous improvement mindset and broad manufacturing knowledge
- strong communication
- problem solving
- data-driven decision making
- SYSPRO (desirable)
- ERP/MRP systems
- costed BOM preparation
Buyer in Gloucester employer: iCOMAT
At iCOMAT, we are not just revolutionising lightweight manufacturing; we are creating a dynamic and inclusive work environment that fosters innovation and professional growth. As the Head of Project Management based in Gloucester, you will have the unique opportunity to build and lead a project management function from the ground up, while enjoying competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and stock options that align your success with the company's growth. Join us at this pivotal moment as we expand our operations globally and redefine the future of composite materials.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Buyer in Gloucester
✨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 iCOMAT.
✨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 in Gloucester
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 iCOMAT:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to iCOMAT. 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 iCOMAT.
How to prepare for a job interview at iCOMAT
✨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 iCOMAT!
✨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 iCOMAT. 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 iCOMAT's culture.
