Category Buyer in Luton

We are looking for an experienced Procurement professional to join our Procurement Team within the Electronic Warfare (EW) Line of Business (Capability Green – Luton). A good level of technical understanding for electro / mechanical buying, negotiation experience, relationship management and stakeholder management will form core elements of the role.

This role will involve actively working in a matrix organisation structure reporting directly to the Senior Procurement Manager within Combat Air (EW). The successful applicant will deliver various electro / mechanical materials, across the various Integrated Project Teams (IPTs). The successful candidate must have a good understanding of procuring tangible materials preferably linked to electro / mechanical components. Working alongside our approved Strategic Suppliers, creating innovative solutions and collaborative relationships.

What you’ll bring

• Oversee Supplier competitions and establish multiple-source options where risk requires.
• Develop effective relationships both horizontally and vertically with the Electro / Mechanical Suppliers, to influence successful outcomes.
• Translate customer / project requirements into Procurement documents where required contractually or to support Life Cycle Management (LCM) governance.
• Work with stakeholders, at all levels, in order to understand internal customer requirements and critical success factors.
• Understanding mechanisms of mitigating risk associated when entering into commercial agreements. Also, consider risk / resilience within the supply base.
• Negotiate standard Leonardo contracts for materials in standard formats.
• Ensure that the appropriate commercial protections are in place such as; effective Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) / Export Licences etc.
• Identify solutions for areas of potential risk / opportunity e.g. sub-contract risk, IPR, liability and exchange rate exposure etc.
• Maintain a close working relationship with the UK Strategic Category team ensuring there is a good communication model established.
• Promotes a culture of best practice and sharing of knowledge within the function and across the wider business.
• Management of Compliance and Governance, restrictions for all procured items.

You really must have:

• Strong and effective communication skills, with the ability to develop and nurture internal and external relationships, promote customer intimacy and team working.
• A record of accomplishment for delivering tangible materials of a complex nature.
• Qualified to degree level or equivalent or significant relevant work experience (studying towards or achievement of MCIPS is preferred).

It would be nice if you had:

• A good working knowledge and understanding of Procurement within the Defence/Aerospace industry (or a similar sector).
• A good understanding of electro / mechanical procurement within the Defence/Aerospace industry (or a similar sector).
• Degree or equivalent in Business Studies.
• Ideally MCIPS qualified or studying towards.
• SAP familiarity (or equivalent integrated business systems).

This is not an exhaustive list, and we are keen to hear from you even if you might not have experience in all the above. The most important skill is a good attitude and willingness to learn.

Security Clearance

This role is subject to pre-employment screening in line with the UK Government’s Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). An additional range of Personnel Security Controls referred to as National Security Vetting (NSV) may apply, this could include meeting the eligibility requirements for The Security Check (SC) or Developed Vetting (DV).

Why join us

At Leonardo, our people are at the heart of everything we do. We offer a comprehensive, company-funded benefits package that supports your wellbeing, career development, and work–life balance. Whether you're looking to grow professionally, care for your health, or plan for the future, we’re here to help you thrive.

• Time to Recharge: Enjoy generous leave with the opportunity to accrue up to 12 additional flexi-days each year.
• Secure your Future: Benefit from our award-winning pension scheme with up to 15% employer contribution.
• Your Wellbeing Matters: Free access to mental health support, financial advice, and employee-led networks championing inclusion and diversity.
• Rewarding Performance: All employees at management level and below are eligible for our bonus scheme.
• Never Stop Learning: Free access to 4,000+ online courses via Coursera and LinkedIn Learning.
• Refer a friend: Receive a financial reward through our referral programme.
• Tailored Perks: Spend up to £500 annually on flexible benefits including private healthcare, dental, family cover, tech & lifestyle discounts, gym memberships and more.
• Flexible working: Flexible hours with hybrid working options. For part time opportunities, please talk to us about what might be possible for this role.

For a full list of our company benefits please visit our website. Leonardo is a global leader in Aerospace, Defence, and Security. Headquartered in Italy, we employ over 53,000 people worldwide including 8,500 across 9 sites in the UK. Our employees are not just part of a team—they are key contributors to shaping innovation, advancing technology, and enhancing global safety.

At Leonardo we are committed to building an inclusive, accessible, and welcoming workplace. We believe that a diverse workforce sparks creativity, drives innovation, and leads to better outcomes for our people and our customers. If you have any accessibility requirements to support you during the recruitment process, just let us know.

Be part of something bigger - apply now!

Primary Location: GB - Luton - Cap. Green 300

Contract Type: Permanent

Hybrid Working: Hybrid