At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead IT procurement projects and manage international supplier relationships.
- Company: Join MBDA, a leading defence organisation supporting the Armed Forces.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, company bonus, flexible working, and enhanced parental leave.
- Other info: Opportunities for travel across Europe and routes towards MCIPS qualification.
- Why this job: Make an impact in IT procurement while enjoying dynamic and flexible work arrangements.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement or a willingness to learn about IT procurement.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
Are you an IT Buyer looking for a Lead Buyer role? Are you looking for an international role? Are you an Indirect Buyer with an interest in technology looking for your first role in IT Procurement? If so, come and join our IT procurement team!
Salary: Circa £45,000 - £55,000 depending on experience
Dynamic (hybrid) working: 2/3 days per week on-site due to workload classification
Security Clearance: British Citizen or a Dual UK national with British citizenship. Restrictions and/or limitations relating to nationality and/or rights to work may apply. As a minimum and after offer stage, all successful candidates will need to undergo HMG Basic Personnel Security Standard checks (BPSS), which are managed by the MBDA Personnel Security Team.
What we can offer you:
- Company bonus: Up to £2,500 (based on company performance and will vary year to year)
- Pension: maximum total (employer and employee) contribution of up to 14%
- Overtime: opportunity for paid overtime
- Flexi Leave: Up to 15 additional days
- Flexible working: We welcome applicants who are looking for flexible working arrangements
- Enhanced parental leave: offers up to 26 weeks for maternity, adoption and shared parental leave - enhancements are available for paternity leave, neonatal leave and fertility testing and treatments
- Facilities: Fantastic site facilities including subsidised meals, free car parking and much more
The opportunity:
We lead all aspects of IT spend across the Group: Enterprise Software, Engineering Software, Manufacturing Software, SaaS (software as a service), Services, Cyber, Networks, Hardware, Security, AI, High Performance Computing etc. There is an opportunity to specialise in one area, to develop into new ones, and we encourage our people to broaden their knowledge over time.
If you have skills in any of these areas, or are looking to move into IT procurement then we would be pleased to discuss how you might best fit within the team!
We are looking for someone who:
- Either is an established IT procurement practitioner or someone willing to learn and develop these skills who already has a good procurement knowledge in other Indirect categories
More importantly, we are looking for someone:
- Comfortable working in an international context
- Builds internal and international relationships
- Able to own and run large procurement projects to support our Category Managers
What we're looking for from you:
- Someone who understands IT procurement, or is comfortable with learning and developing these skills
- Soft and communication skills
- A Buyer looking for the next stage in their IT career or an established Indirect Buyer looking to move into their first role in IT Procurement.
- Travel and international working is part of the role
- There are regular quarterly team meetings that rotate between our sites in the UK, Germany, Italy or Paris
- For specific projects there may also be travel required for stakeholder or supplier meetings in these locations
Ideally we would like someone willing to or working towards MCIPS qualification. We do offer routes towards MCIPS qualification.
Our company: MBDA is a leading defence organisation. We are proud of the role we play in supporting the Armed Forces who protect our nations. We partner with governments to work together towards a common goal, defending our freedom. We are proud of our employee-led networks, examples include: Gender Equality, Pride, Menopause Matters, Parents and Carers, Armed Forces, Ethnic Diversity, Neurodiversity and more. We recognise that everyone is unique, and we encourage you to speak to us should you require any advice, support or adjustments throughout our recruitment process.
Follow us on LinkedIn (MBDA), X (@MBDA_UK), Instagram (MBDA_UK) and Glassdoor or visit our MBDA Careers website for more information.
Lead Buyer - Information Technology employer: MBDA
At MBDA, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters professional growth and flexibility. Our IT procurement team not only leads in innovative technology solutions but also provides generous benefits such as a competitive salary, company bonuses, and enhanced parental leave, all while promoting a culture of inclusivity and support for diverse employee networks. Join us in Bolton for a rewarding career where you can develop your skills in a collaborative international setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Buyer - Information Technology
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the IT procurement field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have a lead or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its procurement processes. Familiarise yourself with their IT spend areas, like SaaS and Cyber, so you can speak confidently about how your skills align with their needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your soft skills! Communication is key in procurement, so be ready to demonstrate how you've built relationships and managed projects in the past. Use examples that highlight your ability to work in an international context.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining our team at MBDA.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Buyer - Information Technology
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Lead Buyer role in IT procurement. Highlight relevant experience and skills that match the job description, especially in IT and indirect buying.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share your passion for technology and procurement, and don’t forget to mention any international experience you have!
Showcase Your Soft Skills:We’re looking for someone with great communication skills. Use your application to demonstrate how you've built relationships in previous roles and how you can bring that to our team.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to apply through our careers website. It’s the easiest way for us to see your application and get you into the process!
How to prepare for a job interview at MBDA
✨Know Your IT Procurement Basics
Make sure you brush up on your understanding of IT procurement. Familiarise yourself with key terms and concepts related to software, hardware, and services. This will help you speak confidently about your knowledge and show that you're ready to take on the Lead Buyer role.
✨Showcase Your Soft Skills
Since this role involves building relationships, be prepared to discuss your soft skills. Think of examples where you've successfully communicated or collaborated with others, especially in an international context. This will demonstrate your ability to thrive in a dynamic team environment.
✨Research the Company and Its Values
Dive into MBDA's mission and values before your interview. Understanding their commitment to supporting the Armed Forces and their employee-led networks can help you align your answers with what they value. It shows genuine interest and helps you connect your personal values with theirs.
✨Prepare Questions About Career Development
Since the role offers routes towards MCIPS qualification, prepare thoughtful questions about career progression and training opportunities. This not only shows your ambition but also your eagerness to grow within the company, making you a more attractive candidate.
