At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage supplier relationships and assess new suppliers for quality and cost.
- Company: Growing engineering services business in Essex with a focus on diversity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Own transport required; travel to supplier sites may be necessary.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in procurement while working with innovative engineering products.
- Qualifications: CIPS level 3 preferred; experience in engineered products is a plus.
Location: Essex, Basildon, Brentwood, Romford
Sector: Engineering, manufacturing
Qualifications: CIPS level 3 preferred
Hybrid: 3 days in office, 2 days from home
Salary: £35,000 - £39,000
Benefits: To be confirmed
Other: Due to site location, own transport required
We are looking for people who are able to bring strategic thinking to a procurement and purchasing function; this is not merely an order placing, transactional role. As well as managing a number of existing suppliers, you will be involved with assessing potential new suppliers for quality, cost and deliverable standards. Current spend is in the order of £80 million.
Experience of engineered products, precision machined components or very similar is highly desirable. This may be for a variety of industries including automotive, medical, aviation and aerospace, general manufacturing or similar.
You will bring strong relationship management skills, enabling you to manage your supply chain to ensure continued performance of delivery and capacity of growth for the future. You will be proficient with MRP systems, able to create and place purchase orders in line with forecast demand. At the same time, you will analyse demand forecasts to ensure adequate stock supply to meet customers' needs.
Numerate, you will be able to assess value for money, profit and loss. You will be able to identify risks, opportunities, market trends and history to assess suppliers' capabilities. Working with quality, you will ensure that all suppliers remain compliant and working to industry standards. You will have experience of, or be prepared to train in supplier audits, evaluation and measurement.
You will be self-motivated, enthusiastic and keen to make a difference. Based in Essex, you will be prepared to travel to supplier sites throughout the UK and internationally as required.
About Us: We are dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. In line with our Diversity and Inclusion policy, we welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. As a Disability Confident Employer, and part of the Nicholas Associates Group, we are committed to supporting candidates with disabilities, and we're happy to discuss flexible working options. We are committed to protecting the privacy of all our candidates and clients. If you choose to apply, your information will be processed in accordance with the Nicholas Associates Group of companies.
Engineering Buyer employer: Nicholas Associates
As a CNC Miller at our modern precision engineering facility near Long Eaton, you will thrive in a dynamic work environment that prioritises employee growth and development. We offer competitive pay rates, generous holiday allowances, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion, ensuring that every team member feels valued and supported. Join us for a rewarding career where your skills can flourish and contribute to our innovative projects.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Engineering Buyer
✨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 Nicholas Associates.
✨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 Engineering Buyer
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 Nicholas Associates:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Nicholas Associates. 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 Nicholas Associates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Nicholas Associates
✨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 Nicholas Associates!
✨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 Nicholas Associates. 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 Nicholas Associates's culture.
