At a Glance
- Tasks: Support procurement by processing orders and managing supplier relationships.
- Company: Join Lotus Cars, a leader in high-performance sports cars with a rich history.
- Benefits: Gain valuable skills, work in a dynamic environment, and enjoy career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with a pioneering spirit.
- Why this job: Be part of an innovative team shaping the future of electric performance cars.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and a desire to learn about purchasing practices.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
We are looking for talented, creative and motivated people to join us on our journey. Within this key support role into the procurement function, the successful individual will be able to develop purchasing and commercial skills.
Role Summary
The Associate Buyer will be responsible for providing procurement and administrative support within the Purchasing and Supply Department, whilst working alongside the procurement teams to develop a skill level and knowledge of purchasing practices and supplier relationship management.
Key Duties/Responsibilities
- Process and place purchase orders on behalf of Lotus.
- Support the key purchase activity of sourcing on a small number of components and the management of the suppliers thereafter.
- Capture data and maintain accurate records to support reporting and audit including supplier capacity planning activity.
- Liaise directly with internal stakeholders to ensure that supplier invoices can be processed in a timely manner.
- Assist in cost-down activities as directed by your Commodity Manager.
- An effective team player, who supports other team members.
- A winning spirit - resilience and tenacity.
- Ability to be nimble and be an effective problem solver.
- Constructively challenge what doesn't meet the needs of our customers.
- Desire to learn and progress within the Lotus purchase team.
Experience
Essential
- Flexibility to work independently when required.
- Excellent communication skills.
- Demonstrable commercial acumen - understanding of basic buying principles.
Desirable, not essential
- Previous experience within procurement and supply chain.
- Higher education, Degree or NVQ level 5 Certificate (ideally technical/business related).
Associate Buyer in Norwich employer: Lotus Cars
Lotus Cars is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Hethel. With a strong focus on employee well-being, we provide generous benefits including 25 vacation days, a future-proof pension, and private healthcare, all while promoting a flexible hybrid working model. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion ensures that every team member can thrive and contribute to our legacy of innovation in the automotive industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Buyer in Norwich
✨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 Lotus Cars.
✨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 Associate Buyer in Norwich
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 Lotus Cars:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Lotus Cars. 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 Lotus Cars.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lotus Cars
✨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 Lotus Cars!
✨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 Lotus Cars. 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 Lotus Cars's culture.
