At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop sourcing strategies and strengthen supplier partnerships for critical raw materials.
- Company: Join LCM, a global leader in rare earth supply chain solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and the chance to influence procurement strategy.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities to work internationally and enhance your career.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a globally recognised business at the heart of innovation.
- Qualifications: Experience in strategic sourcing and strong negotiation skills required.
The predicted salary is between 54000 - 66000 £ per year.
Korn Ferry is delighted to be partnering with LCM, a specialist manufacturer and global supplier operating within a highly technical and internationally connected market. With a reputation for quality, innovation, and customer service, LCM works with suppliers and customers across the globe to deliver critical materials that support a range of industrial applications.
As the business continues to grow, they are seeking a Strategic Buyer to join their team and play a key role in developing sourcing strategies, strengthening supplier partnerships, and ensuring the secure supply of critical raw materials. This is an exciting opportunity to join a globally recognised business at the heart of the rare earth supply chain, where you will directly influence procurement strategy, supplier performance, cost optimisation, and supply chain resilience.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement sourcing strategies for critical raw materials, ensuring continuity of supply, cost competitiveness, and quality performance.
- Manage procurement categories and identify opportunities to improve supplier performance, reduce costs, and support business growth.
- Conduct market research and supplier assessments to identify new sourcing opportunities and strengthen the supplier portfolio.
- Build and maintain strong strategic relationships with suppliers across international markets.
- Lead commercial negotiations covering pricing, contracts, terms and conditions, and supplier agreements.
- Monitor commodity markets, pricing trends, and geopolitical developments that may impact supply availability and cost.
- Partner closely with Operations, Technical, Quality, Finance, and Supply Chain teams to align procurement activities with business requirements.
- Manage supplier performance through regular reviews, KPI tracking, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Support budgeting, forecasting, inventory optimisation, and supply chain risk mitigation activities.
- Maintain procurement data within ERP systems and leverage digital tools to improve reporting, market intelligence, and commercial decision-making.
Skills & Experience Required
- Significant experience in strategic sourcing, procurement, category management, or purchasing within a manufacturing or industrial environment.
- Proven ability to negotiate complex commercial agreements and manage strategic supplier relationships.
- Strong understanding of procurement best practices, category management, supplier development, and sourcing strategy.
- Experience analysing commodity markets, supply chain risks, and total cost of ownership models.
- Excellent commercial acumen with the ability to make data-driven procurement decisions.
- Strong analytical, negotiation, problem-solving, and stakeholder management skills.
- Experience working with ERP systems, procurement platforms, and advanced Excel reporting.
- MCIPS qualified or working towards qualification would be advantageous.
- Experience within metals, specialty chemicals, advanced manufacturing, mining, or raw material procurement environments would be highly beneficial.
Locations
Strategic Buyer in Cheshire, Ellesmere Port employer: LESS COMMON METALS LIMITED
LCM is an exceptional employer that fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration, making it an ideal place for a Purchasing & Import Administrator to thrive. With a commitment to employee development and a supportive work environment, LCM offers unique opportunities for growth within the dynamic manufacturing sector. Located in a vibrant area, employees benefit from a strong sense of community and access to global markets, enhancing both personal and professional experiences.
Contact Details:
LESS COMMON METALS LIMITED Recruitment Team
